What best defines "imperialism"?

A) the process by which one state,with superior military strength and more advanced technology,imposes its control over the land,resources,and population of a less developed region
B) the ideology that embraces the ideals of free trade,democracy for all,and the right to national independence
C) the state of self-actualization achieved by many European countries during the nineteenth century,in which quality of life for the average citizen was drastically improved
D) the process of releasing colonies from home-country control
E) the practice by which African countries reasserted control after years of colonial domination