What does the term "White Man's Burden" refer to?

The term "White Man's Burden" refers to the belief held by many Europeans and Americans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries that they had a moral obligation to bring civilization, education, and progress to what they considered "less developed" societies, particularly in Africa and Asia. This concept was often used to justify imperialism and colonialism, suggesting that the dominant powers were acting out of a sense of duty to help others improve their lives, even if the methods employed were often exploitative. This belief underscored a paternalistic attitude where colonizers viewed themselves as superior and painted their colonial ventures as charitable efforts rather than economic exploitation.

In contrast, while the other options touch on aspects related to colonialism, they do not capture the essence of the "White Man's Burden." Economic responsibilities, the need for cultural exchange, and the challenges of colonization address different angles of imperialistic endeavors without reflecting the specific moral justification embodied in the concept of the "White Man's Burden."