Chapter 3 - The Berlin Conference (1884–1885) & Partitioning of Africa

What was the Berlin Conference?

A meeting from November 1884 to February 1885 where European powers divided Africa.

Who organized the Berlin Conference?

German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck.

What was the primary goal of the Berlin Conference?

To prevent disputes among European nations over African territories.

Who was excluded from the Berlin Conference?

African leaders and representatives.

What was required for a European power to claim territory?

Establish 'effective control' over it.

What type of borders were created by the Berlin Conference?

Artificial borders that ignored ethnic and cultural realities.

What resources were European powers focused on during colonization?

Minerals, rubber, fertile land, and strategic trade routes.

What legacy did the Berlin Conference leave on Africa?

Continued conflict due to artificial borders and lack of African involvement.

What was the outcome of the Berlin Conference?

Formal colonization of Africa by European powers.

What activity simulates the Berlin Conference in class?

Groups claim territories and present reasons for control.

What was established at the Berlin Conference?

Artificial borders in Africa

How did the Berlin Conference affect African communities?

Divided local communities and disrupted social structures

What problems arose from the artificial borders in Africa?

Ethnic conflicts, Resource disputes, Political instability