Colonialism and Neo-Colonialism in Africa

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to colonialism, neo-colonialism, and socio-political themes in African studies.

Colonialism

The control and exploitation of one territory by a foreign power, often involving settlement, resource extraction, and suppression of indigenous cultures.

Neo-Colonialism

When a country appears independent but is still controlled indirectly, often through economic pressure, foreign aid, trade imbalances, or corporate influence by more powerful nations.

Commonwealth

A political and cultural alliance of 56 countries, many of which are former British colonies, established in 1949.

La Francophonie

An international organization founded to promote the French language and cultural cooperation among its members, including many African countries.

Lusophone

Refers to countries that share the Portuguese language and cultural ties, formally organized as the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.

Pan-Africanism

A movement aimed at promoting solidarity and unity among all Africans and advocates for the political, economic, and cultural independence of African nations.

Organization of African Unity (OAU)

Founded in 1963 to promote unity and cooperation among newly independent African states, it evolved into the African Union (AU) in 2002.

Ecowas

Economic Community of West African States, established to promote economic integration and political stability in West Africa.

CEN-SAD

Community of Sahel-Saharan States, founded in 1998 to promote free trade, economic union, and social integration.

COMESA

Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, established to deepen economic integration and promote mutual development.

Polite Racism/Positive Discrimination

Subtle, indirect forms of racism that appear inclusive but can be offensive or marginalizing.

Structural Racism

Forms of racism embedded in legislation and institutional practices, affecting marginalized groups without overt expression.

Tokenism

The practice of making a symbolic effort to be inclusive by inviting marginalized individuals to participate, but excluding them from real power.

Coups d'état

Sudden and illegal seizure of government power, often occurring in African countries post-independence.

Stratification

The hierarchical organization of individuals within a society, often based on socio-economic status.

Deforestation

The clearing or degradation of forests, often for agricultural purposes, leading to environmental issues.

Agriculture in Africa

The primary economic activity for most Africans, including subsistence farming and cash crop cultivation.

Sahara Desert

The largest hot desert in the world, covering much of North Africa.

Biodiversity

Variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, especially relating to species diversity.

Rural Exodus

The movement of people from rural areas to urban centers, often driven by economic opportunities.

Poaching

The illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals, often leading to endangerment of species.

Cultural Exchange

The sharing of ideas, values, and traditions between cultures, often facilitated by organizations like La Francophonie.

Monrovia Bloc

Political alliance founded in 1961, focusing on national sovereignty and gradual cooperation between African nations.

Cultural Ties

Connections between communities brought about by shared language, traditions, and historical experiences.

Economic Colonization

The practice where former colonial powers maintain control over the economic resources of the colonies, despite political independence.

Political Independence

The condition of a country being free from outside control and having its own government, while still facing economic challenges.