Europeans Establish Colonial Claims in Africa January 27, 2006

Imperialism What is imperialism? –The domination by one country of political, economic, or cultural life of another country or region. Why imperialism? –Increased national prestige –New markets and control of raw materials –Individual wealth and glory –Humanitarian and religious concerns Superiority of the _________ __________ Spreading the benefits of western civilization a concept known as _________ ________ ____________ –Social Darwinism ____________ creature _____________ It’s natural for __________ _________ to conquer weaker peoples

Case Study: Egypt Muhammad Ali modernizes Egypt using European education, expertise, and investment. Egypt becomes major exporter of “cash crops” Growing Egyptian debt allowed Europeans, mostly British, to influence politics and economics Geographic position places Egypt at the center of world trade routes (Suez Canal) Britain gains control over Egypt in 1870

Europeans Elsewhere in Africa French- North Africa (Algiers, Tunis, Morocco) and West Africa (Sahara) Italy- Libya and Abyssinia (Ethiopia) Germany- East Africa, Cameroon British- Egypt, Sudan, Union of South Africa

Zulu Wars and the Boer War Shaka founded the Zulu state in 1802 Dutch (Boers) desires cause conflict and war with the Zulu’s over control of the territory Boers defeat the Zulus 1839 The Boers (Republic of South Africa) come under British rule Internal tension cause the Boers to move inland “called the “Great Trek” to later Transvaal Boers find gold and diamonds British annex Transvaal, Boer War begins Britain defeats the Boers after 2 years (Union of South Africa)

The Berlin Conference European “scramble” causes tensions between the large powers War almost breaks out between France and Britain European powers call for a conference to settle all differences Africa is carved up without regard to ethnic groups

Holding Colonial Claims The most common forms of imperial rule –Colonies –Spheres of influence –Protectorate