Les 8: Colonialism

These flashcards summarize key concepts and events related to Belgian colonialism as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is colonialism?

The conquest and control of other people’s lands and goods.

What denotes the relationship between colonies and coloniser states?

Colonies are tied to their coloniser states, with a mother state acting like a parent to the colony.

What was the dominant ideology in Belgian colonialism?

Strict division of foreign rulers and the local population.

Who was Leopold II?

King of the Belgians and Sovereign of the Congo Free State from 1885 to 1909.

What was the purpose of the Doctrine of Discovery?

It justified the acquisition of land deemed 'unused' by Europeans.

What characterized the administrative structure of Belgian colonies?

It was a bureaucratic intervention state ruled by civil servants.

What was the significance of the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885?

It established the Congo Free State and secured territorial control among major European powers.

What economic policy was implemented under Belgian colonial rule?

A regime of state monopoly on goods, particularly in rubber and ivory.

What led to the establishment of the Congo Reform Association?

Outcries and reports regarding atrocities and forced labor practices in the Congo.

Who was Patrice Lumumba?

The first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo and a leader in anti-colonial resistance.

What was the impact of World War I on Belgian colonialism?

Increased importance of Congolese resources for funding the war.

What was the outcome of the Belgian annexation of the Congo Free State?

Belgium tried to present itself as a benevolent colonizer while continuing exploitation.

What was a major characteristic of the post-war period (1945-1960) in Belgian Congo?

The establishment of social services alongside persistent segregation and discrimination.

How did colonialism affect social structures in Belgian Congo?

It led to a divide between the educated elite and the impoverished populations.

What does the term 'neo-colonial state' refer to in the context of Congo?

The continuation of colonial control through economic and political means after formal independence.