1. The Scrabble for Africa

2. Who
France, Great Britain, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Portugal.

3. What
A time period when the continent of Africa was divided and claimed by various European countries.

4. When
It began with the Berlin Conference in 1884, which lasted 3 months.
The division of Africa lasted until 1914.

5. Where
The official meeting was held in Berlin, Germany, with leaders from 13 European countries and the United States were in attendance.
There was not one African representative in attendance.

6. Why
European countries wanted the vast natural resources found in Africa, more land to add to their colonial empires, and a new market for goods.
They also thought they cold “civilize” the people living there.

7. Effects
This act of imperialism contributed to the outbreak of WWI as countries continued to compete with one another for natural resources and power.
The boundaries chosen by the European countries combined rival tribes and split ethic groups creating conflicts within the countries which still persist today.