Key Concepts in African Geography, History, and Colonialism

What is colonialism?

Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

What is a coup d'état?

A coup d'état is the sudden overthrow of a government, often executed by a small group that uses force or the threat of force.

What is direct rule?

Direct rule is a system of governance where a central authority controls the government and administration of a territory, often with officials from the colonizing country.

What is indirect rule?

Indirect rule is a system of governance where local rulers maintain their authority under the guidance of a central authority, often used in colonial contexts.

What is an escarpment?

An escarpment is a steep slope or cliff that separates two relatively level areas of differing elevations.

What is kleptocracy?

Kleptocracy is a government characterized by rampant corruption, where officials exploit the country's resources and steal from the public.

What is a monsoon?

A monsoon is a seasonal prevailing wind in South Asia that brings heavy rainfall, typically occurring in the summer months.

What is neocolonialism?

Neocolonialism refers to the indirect control or influence of powerful countries over less developed nations, often through economic or political means.

What is Strongman Rule?

Strongman Rule is a political system where a single leader wields significant power, often bypassing democratic processes and using authoritarian tactics.

What are the major environmental barriers to Africa's development?

Major environmental barriers include desertification, lack of access to clean water, and vulnerability to climate change.

What are the basic characteristics of Sub-Saharan Africa's population?

Sub-Saharan Africa has a high population growth rate, a young demographic profile, and faces challenges such as poverty and health issues.

What is food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa?

Food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa is a critical issue characterized by limited access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for a healthy life.

What percentage of people living with HIV are in Sub-Saharan Africa?

Approximately 70% of the estimated 38 million people living with HIV globally reside in Sub-Saharan Africa.

How many Africans were shipped to the Americas between the 1500s and 1870?

Approximately 12 million Africans were shipped to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade between the 1500s and 1870.

What is uneven development?

Uneven development refers to the unequal distribution of resources and economic growth across different regions, often leading to disparities in wealth and living standards.

What is the significance of Africa's railroad systems?

Africa's railroad systems illustrate uneven development, as they often connect resource-rich areas to ports for export, benefiting foreign interests rather than local economies.

What is the definition of independence according to Bitange Ndemo?

Ndemo argues that true independence involves not just political freedom but also economic self-sufficiency and the ability to make autonomous decisions.

Which European countries were involved in the colonization of Africa?

European countries involved in the colonization of Africa include Britain, France, Belgium, Portugal, Germany, and Italy.

Which three modern-day countries of Africa were never significantly colonized?

Ethiopia, Liberia, and Somalia were never significantly colonized by European powers.

What is the Great Escarpment?

The Great Escarpment is a steep slope marking the edge of a plateau in southern Africa, characterized by dramatic cliffs and diverse ecosystems.

What is the Great Rift Valley?

The Great Rift Valley is a geological fault system in East Africa that is known for its unique landscapes, lakes, and rich biodiversity.

What is Lake Victoria?

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, bordered by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

What is the Sahara?

The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world, covering much of North Africa and characterized by arid conditions and sparse vegetation.