Imperialism was about exploiting colonies’ natural wealth. Even today, the economies of many developing countries depend on exporting unprocessed primary products. Despite their immense natural resources, many countries still experience mass poverty. This phenomenon is commonly called “the paradox of plenty”. Corrupt governments and warring parties enrich themselves and fund armed forces with the revenues they generate by selling commodities. Strong demand for raw materials from advanced nations as well as emerging markets is perpetuating this depressing trend. There is an alternative, however. Governments of resource-rich countries should rise to their responsibilities and turn the resource curse into a blessing for entire societies.
