How is "imperialism" best defined?

Imperialism is best defined as the practice of extending a country's influence through various means, which can include military force, economic pressure, or cultural dominance. This concept has been historically significant as nations have sought to expand their control over territories and populations outside their own borders, often leading to the establishment of empires. By exerting influence, an imperial power aims to assert its dominance and ensure its interests are upheld in the target regions.

The definition captures the multifaceted nature of imperialism, highlighting that it is not limited to military conquests but can also involve economic manipulation and the promotion of cultural values to achieve expansionist goals. This understanding is essential for analyzing historical and contemporary global relationships shaped by imperial dynamics. In contrast, the other choices imply different forms of international interaction that do not fully encapsulate the aggressive and expansionist essence of imperialism.