Question

Under New Imperialism, Europe did not need large numbers of people to control colonies because of

decades of proven leadership under old imperialism.
improved transportation, communication, and other advantages.
carefully forged relationships with colonies’ existing governments.
strong central control from within European nations.

Answer 1

improved transportation, communication, and other advantages.

European powers used steamships, railways, the telegraph, modern weapons, and medical advances (like quinine) to project power efficiently, so they did not need large occupying forces.