The elastic "long century" can mean a period between 150 and 190 years, approaching two ordinary centuries. Historians want period names to be accurate without steering interpretation toward one side. "Age of Imperialism" is one alternative because imperialism was a major feature of the period. The label remains contentious because it can make imperial powers the centre of the story while pushing aside the people who suffered under imperialism and the few countries outside it. Imperialism during the period continued older practices, now aided by improved equipment. Naming a period therefore involves choosing which historical experience to foreground.
Chapter · 0:46-2:00
The long century and the politics of period names
A "long century" can span 150 to 190 years. "Age of Imperialism" describes a major feature of the period, though the name can centre imperial powers at the expense of people subjected to imperialism and countries less involved in it.