In the late nineteenth century, European imperialism in both Africa and China was characterized by widespread trade in opium A the encouragement of slavery B extensive conquest of territory C small military enclaves along coastlines D competition among imperialist powers

The correct answer is letter D

European imperialism provided a high level of consumption for the global powers. At the same time, it caused misery on the African and Asian continents.

With independence on the American continent and the strategic American threat to European nations that dared to re-dominate territories in America, the world order was undergoing changes. European imperialism, which would explore Asia and Africa, would now determine world geopolitics.

The power of European magnates and politicians, as well as the standard of living of the continent's middle classes, were sustained by the colonial economy. There being no more colonial domains to explore, two options remained for those nations: to grow through diplomatic relations or to control other regions. The second option was chosen. And so, the European powers started to feed their industries and strengthen their economy by extracting wealth and preventing the development of regions in Africa and Asia.