What effect did the “sanctity of contracts” have on state governments power

It limited the power of states to regulate businesses
The power to protect businesses contracts was overwhelming considered a federal responsibility under federal constitution in a landmark ruling by the justice marshal court, which held that the state government had no power to rescind on contracts it had made.

imperialism is a way of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force. the country also gains territories of lands.

D. Colonial. The executioner of the elephant represents the imperial country and the elephant symbolizes the victims of the imperialism. the shooting of the elephant shows that imperialism inflicts damage on both parties.

colonial imperialism is a metaphor in this article. Orwell is speaking about britiains role in conquering Burma over 62 years. burma was a colonial state that britain conquered in 1886 and later gained its independence in 1948.