Abstract

A focal point of Lenin's theory of imperialism is the classification of imperialism as a special stage in the development of capitalism, arising towards the end of the 19th century. This attempt to give imperialism such a specific historical reference date has been a subject of controversy, the main objection being that many of the features considered characteristic of imperialism are found early in the game and throughout the history of capitalism: the urgency to develop a world market, the struggle to control foreign sources of raw materials, the competitive hunt for colonies, and the tendency towards concentration of capital.This article can also be found at the Monthly Review website, where most recent articles are published in full.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.

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