The necessity to export capital comes from the "over-development" of capitalism in certain countries where (with agriculture backward and the masses impoverished) "profitable" investments are becoming scarce
Here are approximate figures showing the amount of capital invested abroad by the three great powers.61
| Year | Britain | France | Germany | |
| 1862 | ... | 3.6 | — | — |
| 1872 | ... | 15 | 10 (1869) | — |
| 1882 | ... | 22 | 15 (1880) | ? |
| 1893 | ... | 42 | 20 (1890) | ? |
| 1902 | ... | 62 | 27-37 | 12.5 |
| 1914 | ... | 75-100 | 60 | 44 |
This table shows that the export of capital did not develop formidable proportions until the beginning of the 20th century. Before the war, the capital invested abroad by the three great powers amounted to between 175 and 200 milliard francs. At the modest estimate of 5 per cent., it was bringing in from 8 to 10 milliard a year. This is a solid basis for imperialist oppression, and the exploitation of most of the countries and nations of the world, it is a solid basis for the capitalist parasitism of a few wealthy States.
How is this capital invested abroad divided? Where does it go? Only an approximate answer can be given to this question, but it will enlighten us on the general aspect of modern imperialism and its implications.
