Deforestation
The process of clearing forests
Real World Example
During the era of New Imperialism from 1800-1915, deforestation was a significant process as European powers expanded their empires by clearing forests to access valuable resources and create plantations. This was important because it allowed imperial nations to grow economically by exploiting new lands for timber, rubber, and agricultural products. Deforestation responded to the demand for raw materials needed to fuel industrial growth and maintain economic dominance. Today, deforestation remains relevant as it contributes to climate change, loss of biodiversity, and impacts local communities. For example, in the Amazon rainforest, ongoing deforestation affects indigenous peoples' way of life and reduces the world's ability to absorb carbon dioxide, impacting global climate patterns.
