Imperialists Divide Africa
What is Imperialism? Definition: one country taking over another with intent to dominate all aspects of the people of that nation
Africa Divided into hundreds of ethnic and linguistic groups Strong armies kept Europeans out until 1800s How were they able to do this? Brainstorm ideas
Europeans had a technological advantage Until the Europeans gained advanced technology, the Africans were successful Social Darwinism – evolution and “survival of the fittest” applied to social change Europeans had a technological advantage Maxim gun – first machine gun Steam engine (navigate those rivers!) Quinine (drug that helps prevent Malaria) Lack of unity among African groups Berlin Conference (1884-1885) 14 European nations make rules for dividing Africa NO AFRICAN REPRESENTATIVES
Where Were the Resources?
Who Got What?
Side by Side
Open Your Notes Think about it… In your notes write down (you may work with the people near you) 3 potential positive effects of colonial rule 3 potential negative effects of colonial rule
Impact on Africa Positive – Negative – Reduced local warfare Improved sanitation, more hospitals and schools in some regions Lifespan and literacy rates increased Economic expansion Negative – Loss of control of land and independence Death due to disease, battle and famine Breakdown of traditional culture Division of the African continent
What’s the Deal With Little Sierra Leon? Sierra Leone’s Civil War (1991-2002) The war was triggered by: Political instability Blood diamonds The civil war resulted in: Tens of thousand dead Over a million refugees - Destruction of 60% of educational infrastructure
Children Were Particularly Effected As victims they experienced mass amputation As perpetrators they served as child soldiers
What About Now? Sierra Leone ranks last in the latest UN Human Development Index Two thirds of adults are illiterate (with female illiteracy at 77%) Life expectancy is 42 Half of the population does not have access to potable water 30%of children under 5 are underweight