What was the main difference between extractive colonialism and settler colonialism?

Correct answer: Extractive colonialism focused on resource extraction while settler colonialism focused on permanent land claim

The direct answer is A: extractive colonialism mainly focused on taking resources, while settler colonialism involved a permanent claim to land and settlement. Colonialism means one power controls another region and its people. In an extractive system, the ruling power is chiefly interested in minerals, crops, taxes, labour, trade, or other wealth. It may govern through officials or local intermediaries without intending that large numbers of its own people permanently replace the original population. In settler colonialism, settlers move to the occupied land, establish permanent communities, and seek lasting control of territory. Step by step, ask what the main purpose is: if the focus is removing wealth, it is extractive; if the focus is occupying and permanently claiming land, it is settler colonial. Option A is correct because it gives this central difference. Option B is wrong because the two forms have different aims and patterns, even though both involve domination. Option C is wrong because land is a central question in settler colonialism: possession, settlement, and control of territory are essential. Option D is wrong because extractive colonialism was not merely an educational reform; education could be one tool of rule, but resource control was the key feature here. Memory cue: extractive means extract wealth; settler means settle on land.