Reactions of Europeans and Westerners to Strong's writing would be diverse and complex, depending on their background and political views:
Potential positive reactions:
* Nationalists and imperialists: Strong's views would likely resonate with Europeans and Westerners who already believed in the superiority of their own cultures and the right to expand their influence.
* Missionaries and religious leaders: Many would likely agree with Strong's religious argument for spreading Christianity and consider it their mission to civilize "primitive" peoples.
* Businessmen and industrialists: Strong's arguments for expanding markets and securing resources would likely appeal to those seeking economic opportunities abroad.
Potential negative reactions:
* Anti-imperialists and liberals: Strong's work would likely be condemned by those who saw imperialism as exploitative and unjust. They would challenge his claims of Anglo-Saxon superiority and argue for the right of other cultures to develop independently.
* Nationalists from other countries: Europeans and Westerners from countries not considered "Anglo-Saxon" would likely feel threatened by Strong's claims of their own inferiority and the potential for American domination.
* Intellectuals and scholars: Many would criticize Strong's scientific racism and his simplistic understanding of cultures and civilizations. They would argue for a more nuanced and respectful view of other societies.
Overall, Strong's writing would have been a powerful and controversial text within European and Western society. It reflected a complex combination of religious, cultural, and economic factors that fueled the expansion of Western power. While some found his arguments compelling, others viewed them as a justification for exploitation and oppression. His legacy continues to be debated, with scholars and historians grappling with the impact of his ideas on the history of colonialism and globalization.