Whistory Imperialism 5 min study sesh im COOKED.

Civilizing Mission

The justification for European colonialism, claiming that they were bringing "civilization" (Christianity, Western education, etc.) to "uncivilized" people. It was used to excuse exploitation.

Social Darwinism

• A distorted application of Darwin's "survival of the fittest" to human societies, used to justify imperialism and racism, arguing that strong nations had the right to dominate weaker ones.

Scramble for Africa

The rapid invasion, colonization, and division of Africa by European powers in the late 19th century, formalized at the Berlin Conference (1884-85).

Settler Colonies

Colonies where Europeans settled permanently, often displacing or ruling over the indigenous population (e.g., South Africa, Australia, Algeria).

Indian Rebellion

Also called the Sepoy Mutiny, it was a major uprising against British rule in India, caused by resentment toward British policies and cultural insensitivity. It led to the dissolution of the British East India Company and direct British rule in India.

Mau Mau Rebellion

5. A violent anti-colonial movement in Kenya (1952-1960) against British rule, led by the Kikuyu people. It played a key role in Kenya's independence.

Congo Free State

King Leopold II of Belgium’s personal colony (1885-1908), notorious for its brutal exploitation of the Congolese people, particularly in rubber production. Millions died due to forced labor, starvation, and violence.

Cultivation System

A Dutch colonial policy in Indonesia (19th century) that forced peasants to grow cash crops like sugar and coffee instead of food, leading to famine and hardship.

King Leopold II

The Belgian king who personally controlled the Congo Free State, infamous for his exploitation and atrocities.

Cash Crop Production

The practice of growing crops for export (cotton, rubber, sugar) rather than local consumption, often leading to economic dependence and food shortages.

Indirect Rule

A colonial system where local rulers governed under European authority (e.g., British rule in Nigeria).

Direct Rule

A colonial system where Europeans directly controlled the government and administration, often replacing local leaders (e.g., French rule in Algeria).

Paternalism

The belief that colonizers had to "take care" of indigenous people like children, used to justify controlling and limiting their freedoms.

Africanization of Christianity

The blending of Christian beliefs with African traditions, leading to the development of independent African churches and religious movements.

Scientific Racism

• The use of pseudo-scientific theories to claim that some races were biologically superior, justifying slavery, imperialism, and segregation.

Hinduism

A diverse religious tradition originating in India, shaped during the colonial period as a unified identity in response to British classification of religions.

Vivekanada

An Indian Hindu monk who spread Hindu philosophy and nationalism, emphasizing India’s spiritual contributions to the world.

African Identity

• The concept of a shared cultural and historical identity among Africans, often in response to colonialism.

Edward Blyden

A West African intellectual who promoted Pan-Africanism and the idea that Africa had its own distinct and valuable civilization.

Kikuyu

• The largest ethnic group in Kenya, central to the Mau Mau rebellion against British rule.

Jomo Kenyatta

A Kenyan nationalist leader and the first president of independent Kenya.

Idea of Tribe

The colonial-era categorization of African ethnic groups into "tribes," often exaggerating differences to divide and control populations.

Marcus Garvey

A Jamaican political leader who promoted Pan-Africanism and the "Back to Africa" movement, encouraging Black unity and self-reliance.

Kwame Nkrumah

Leader of Ghana’s independence movement and its first president, a key figure in Pan-Africanism.

Anti-Colonial Nationalism

Movements that sought to end colonial rule and establish independent nation-states, often rooted in economic and cultural grievances.

Self Determination

The right of people to govern themselves, a principle that fueled anti-colonial struggles.

Mandates

Territories placed under European control after WWI, supposedly preparing them for independence (e.g., British Palestine, French Syria).

Pan-Africanism

The belief in unity among African people worldwide, advocating for political solidarity and independence from colonial powers.

WWI and imperialism

WWI weakened European powers and inspired anti-colonial movements, but also led to new colonial mandates in the Middle East and Africa.

WWII and Imperialism

WWII further weakened European empires, as colonized people saw European vulnerability and demanded independence. Many independence movements gained momentum after the war.