Colonial Meaning
Colonial Definition & Usage
Pertaining to, characteristic of, or established during the period of colonization or the influence of a colonial power.
Examples
- "The colonial architecture of the city is a reminder of its history under British rule."
- "Colonial powers often imposed their culture and laws on the indigenous populations."
- "The country was shaped by its colonial past, influencing its current social and political structure."
- "She inherited a colonial estate, with sprawling grounds and historic buildings."
- "Colonial trade routes connected distant continents, facilitating the exchange of goods and culture."
A system, period, or state of colonization by a foreign power.
Examples
- "The colonial era in Africa ended after World War II, marking a significant shift in global power dynamics."
- "The colonial administration was deeply involved in the exploitation of natural resources."
- "In the years following independence, former colonies faced the challenges of adjusting to new governance systems."
- "The decline of the colonial system is often seen as a response to growing demands for self-rule."
- "Colonial legacies still affect the development of many countries around the world."
Relating to a particular style of architecture, art, or design that reflects the influence of colonial powers.
Examples
- "The colonial furniture in the house features intricate wood carvings and dark, rich finishes."
- "The building's colonial style with its large windows and high ceilings was a popular trend in the 19th century."
- "They renovated the kitchen with colonial-style cabinetry, complete with brass handles."
- "She wore a colonial-inspired dress, with lace details and a full skirt."
- "The colonial-inspired décor of the hotel created a sense of nostalgia for the past."
Cultural Context
The term 'colonial' has deep roots in historical and cultural studies, often referring to the period when European powers established colonies in various parts of the world. This includes the British Empire, Spanish Empire, and other colonial endeavors. The word carries significant weight in discussions of power, governance, and cultural exchange (or exploitation) during these periods.
The Colonial Estate
Story
The Colonial Estate
In the heart of the tropical island stood the grand colonial estate, its towering pillars casting long shadows over the lush gardens below. Once home to a wealthy European settler, the estate had been abandoned after the island gained independence. Amelia, a young historian from the mainland, arrived to study the house and its significance during the colonial era. As she wandered through its grand halls, with their dark wooden floors and antique furniture, she was struck by how the past still lingered in the corners of the rooms. The colonial architecture, with its wide verandas and imposing symmetry, seemed like a frozen testament to the power that once controlled the land. Amelia’s research soon led her to uncover more than just the architecture—she discovered the harsh realities of colonial rule, the exploitation of the indigenous people, and the lasting impact it had on the island’s culture. The more she learned, the more she felt the weight of history upon her shoulders. The colonial legacy was evident not just in the building’s walls, but in the lives of the people still living in the shadow of the past. Amelia realized that the history of the estate was not just about the past, but about the ongoing conversation between the colonial and the post-colonial world. As she sat on the veranda overlooking the now-verdant land, Amelia knew that understanding colonialism’s complexities was crucial for moving forward. It was a history she couldn’t ignore, but one that needed to be acknowledged to make way for a future that respected both the past and the present.
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