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IM·PE·RI·AL·ISM–NOUN
1. the policy of extending the rule or authority of
an empire or nation over foreign countries, or of acquiring and holding colonies and dependencies.
2. British. the policy of so uniting the separate
parts of an empire with separate governments as to secure for certain purposes a single state.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
Now that we know what “imperialism” means, why would European nations impose it on parts of Africa?
What are some of the ways that European
imperialism came to Africa? What might be some of the benefits to indigenous
people of Africa through colonization? What may be some of the drawbacks?
INTRODUCTION
By 1875 European possessions in Africa consisted of some forts and trading posts along the coast and a few tiny colonies. Between 1880 and 1910, however, Africa was divided up among the Europeans. For the next 50 years, decisions about Africa and its people were not made in Africa, but in European capitals.
HOW DID EUROPEAN RULE COME TO AFRICA?
Agreements made between European trading companies and African chiefs
Tribal chiefs sometimes asked for European protection from another tribe
Treaties were signed by African chiefs giving European companies or government power to govern
Thousands of treaties were signed by African rulers giving away most of their rights due to lack of understanding of treaties/language
WHY?
European countries competed with each other to gain power and prestige
The more land they were able to control, the more powerful and important they could become
Natural resources brought to Europe and turned into manufactured goods
Taking of territory simply to prevent another European nation from taking it
COLONIALISM:
The forced control or governing influence of a nation over a dependent country, territory, or people
NATIONALISM:
A strong pride in one’s nation or ethnic group
What are some examples of nationalism?
During the 1920s and 30s, some colonial rulers sent a few Africans to attend universities in Europe and the U.S. Educated Africans began to believe they could govern themselves
WWI
African men fought for European Allies during WWI and thousands died
Those that returned talked about the freedoms they had seen in Europe
Ex-soldiers wanted self-rule
PAN-AFRICAN CONGRESS
The idea of pan-Africanism grew – people of African descent from all over the world should work together for their freedom
In 1919 the first Pan-African Congress was organized
WWII AND INDEPENDENCE
Many Africans fought in WWII Demand for independence grew European nations were tired and poor
from war so they did not put up much resistance in African independence movements
For the most part, the path to independence was smooth, but a few were very violent
NIGERIA
During colonial rule, Nigeria experienced a well-organized government, rich resources, and a strong economy
It was thought that when Nigeria gained independence from Great Britain, its diversity would be a source of strength, however, it became a source of conflict
Nigerian politicians focused on ethnic groups instead of the whole country