Final answer:
European empires controlled a significant percentage of the earth by 1914, with European powers controlling approximately 90 percent of Africa following the 'Scramble for Africa'.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Edward Said, by 1914, European empires controlled a vast percentage of the earth. Specifically, European countries had asserted their dominance over many parts of the world, highlighted by their control over the African continent. By the end of the 19th century, following the 'Scramble for Africa,' European powers claimed control over approximately 90 percent of Africa. During this period of new imperialism, the rapid expansion of European control was propelled by the search for profits, raw materials, political power, and a self-imposed 'civilizing mission'. As a result, by the time of the First World War, it was acknowledged that European powers had influence over the majority of the world.