Imperial expansion refers to the process by which a nation extends its power and influence over other territories, often through conquest or colonization. This phenomenon has shaped global history, leading to the establishment of vast empires such as the British Empire and the Roman Empire, which sought to control resources and spread their culture. The motivations behind imperial expansion can vary, including economic gain, strategic advantage, and the desire for national prestige. However, it often resulted in significant consequences for indigenous populations, including displacement, cultural assimilation, and conflict, as seen in the histories of Native Americans and African nations during the colonial era.