Grade 8 Social Sciences (History): Colonisation of Africa and World War I

Comprehensive practice question-and-answer flashcards covering European colonisation of Africa, Ashanti resistance, World War I alliances, wartime propaganda, the Suffragette movement, and trench warfare conditions.

What was the primary goal of the Berlin Conference held between 1884 and 1885?

To split up Africa peacefully among European nations without going to war with each other.

Which European leader led the Berlin Conference?

Otto von Bismarck (the German Chancellor).

Why was the Berlin Conference considered unfair to African people?

No African leaders were invited; Europeans drew borders over existing kingdoms and stole African land without permission.

What is the definition of colonisation?

When a powerful country takes control of another land or country and rules over its people and resources.

Which two European powers colonised the largest parts of Africa?

France and Great Britain.

Why did Great Britain name their colony in West Africa the 'Gold Coast'?

Because it was rich in gold resources.

What three major factors allowed Europeans to colonise Africa so quickly?

Advanced weapons (such as the rapid-firing Maxim machine gun), technology and transport (steamships and railways), and medicine (quinine to protect against malaria).

What critical perspective on European colonisation did leaders like Desmond Tutu express?

They pointed out that Europeans brought religion (the Bible) but used it as a distraction to take away African land and freedom.

What was the settler perspective on colonialism expressed by figures like Ian Smith?

They claimed colonialism was 'wonderful' because it brought 'civilisation,' schools, written languages, and modern technology.

Which British commander was defeated and killed by Ashanti forces in 1824?

Sir Charles MacCarthy.

At which 1826 battle did the British strike back and defeat the Ashanti?

The Battle of Dodowa.

What were the results of the British defeating the Ashanti army in 1874 under Governor Garnet Wolseley?

The Ashanti Empire broke apart (disintegrated) and had to sign the Treaty of Fomena, giving up control of southern states.

Who was Yaa Asantewaa, and what action did she take in 1900?

She was the Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom who led a military rebellion in 1900 to protect her people's independence when the British tried to claim the sacred Golden Stool.

What were the start and end years of World War I, and how long did it last?

World War I began in 1914 and ended in 1918, lasting for 4 years.

Which nations formed the Allied Powers and the Central Powers during World War I?

The Allied Powers included Great Britain, France, and Russia; the Central Powers included Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire.

What is the definition of propaganda?

Information, posters, or media designed to spread specific ideas, manipulate emotions, or influence how people think.

How did Allied propaganda posters depict Germany to create anti-German sentiment?

As a 'Mad Brute' (a terrifying gorilla) to show them as uncivilised monsters.

What did female figures usually represent in World War I propaganda posters?

Liberty, Civilisation, or innocent victims needing protection.

What was the main goal of Emmeline Pankhurst and the British Suffragettes?

To secure the right to vote for women (women's suffrage).

Why did the British Suffragette movement adopt militant tactics like breaking windows and hunger strikes?

Because the government kept ignoring peaceful protests.

What medical condition was caused by constant mud and water in the trenches of the Western Front?

'Trench foot' (rotting feet).

What term was commonly used to describe the severe psychological trauma and stress suffered by soldiers during World War I trench warfare?

'Shell shock'.