1.  European Imperialism in Africa 1800-1914

2. African History Review  3000 B.C.-1400’s A.D.  African civilizations/ cultures develop with little interference from Europeans (Ghana, Benin, Mali, Songhai, Zimbabwe).  Trade networks, learning centers, architecture, government, customs, etc.  1400’s- mid-1800’s  Trans- Atlantic Slave Trade

3. What is Imperialism?  The creation and maintenance of an unequal economic, cultural and territorial relationship, usually between states and often in the form of an empire, based on domination and subordination.  Powerful nations control or influence less powerful nations, taking advantage of resources and people.  Imperialism has had a significant impact on the past and present in Africa.

4. European Motives for Imperialism in Africa  Economic  Political  Cultural/Religious

5. Economic Motives  European nations were going through the Industrial Revolution (factories/ manufacturing)  Increased production = increased demand for raw materials  Africa was a vast land filled with opportunity for raw materials.  Industrial nations began looking for new markets.  Industrialists wanted exclusive rights to sell in African markets.

6. Political Motives  Nationalists (pride and loyalty to one’s nation) believed having colonies increased the strength and prestige of their nations.  More colonies = more $$$ = more power

7. Cultural/Religious Motives  People of Europe thought they had a duty to pass on their ideas/ culture and knowledge to the rest of the world.  Some people went to Africa for religious reasons.  They thought Christianity was superior and wanted Africans to adopt their beliefs.

8. European Claims in Africa

9. Major Imperial Powers  Great Britain  Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda  France  Western Africa, Morocco, Madagascar, Algeria  Germany  Tanzania, Namibia, Cameroon  Belgium (Dutch)  Congo, very brutal colonizers

10. European Government in Africa Direct Rule (hands on)  France, Germany  Imperial power controlled all levels of government  Assimilation – people of the colonies would abandon their customs and adopt those of the imperial nation Indirect Rule (hands off)  Great Britain  British governor and a council of advisors would make colonial laws  Local ruler had some power

11. African Resistance  Many Africans resisted European rule with military force (Menelik II in Ethiopia)  Despite the resistance, most Africans were no match for the Europeans, mainly because of the weapons of the Europeans.

12. Benefits and Cost of Imperialism Imperialism Benefits Europeans  European economies grow wealthier  Spread of European culture and values  Comparisons to American slavery? Imperialism Hurts Africans  As Europe (and U.S.) are developing, most African countries are not.  Africa’s wealth does not benefit African people.  Conflicts between tribes (borders)  Many issues still plague Africa today