Scramble for Africa and European Colonization

Flashcards covering the Scramble for Africa, European motives, and factors that enabled European colonization.

Scramble for Africa

Period of rapid colonization of the African continent by European powers, starting around 1880.

King Leopold II

Belgian king who played a significant role in the Scramble for Africa, particularly in the Congo.

Ethnic and Linguistic Diversity in Africa (Mid-1800s)

African peoples were divided into hundreds of ethnic and linguistic groups with over 1,000 different languages.

Pre-colonial African Societies

Ranged from large empires to independent villages, with diverse religious practices (traditional beliefs, Islam, Christianity).

Early European Trade with Africa

Began in North Africa, with Africans trading gold and salt for copper, clothing, and crops.

European Presence in Africa Before Scramble

Prior to the Scramble, Europeans mainly controlled coastal areas and faced difficulties navigating the interior due to rivers and disease.

Industrial Revolution's Impact on Colonization

Created demand for raw materials and markets, fueling European colonization efforts.

European Nationalism

Empires were viewed as a measure of national pride and greatness.

Social Darwinism

The belief that European people were superior to others and the fittest to rule based on Charles Darwin's ideas.

Missionary Activity

European missionaries sought to convert and

Technological Superiority

Europeans possessed advanced weaponry like the Maxim gun and steam engines.

Lack of African Nationalism

Africans lacked a unified national identity, making it easier for Europeans to exploit rivalries.

Diamonds and Gold Discoveries

The discoveries of diamonds (1867) and gold (1886) in South Africa.

Berlin Conference (1884-1885)

European nations met to establish rules for dividing Africa, without African representation.

Outcome of the Berlin Conference

By 1914, only Liberia and Ethiopia remained independent.

Economic Factors and Imperialism

The Industrial Revolution led to a need for larger markets and resources, motivating European expansion.

Political Factors and Imperialism

Acquiring territory was seen as a measure of power and influence on the world stage.

Social Factors and Imperialism

Empires were viewed as a measure of national pride and a reflection of a nation's strength.

Racism

The belief that one race is superior to others.