Download presentation
Presentation is loading. Please wait.
Published byAlison Wright Modified over 9 years ago
1
European Imperialism in Africa 1800-1914
2
African History Review 3000 B.C.-1400’s A.D. African civilizations/ cultures develop with little interference from Europeans (Ghana, Benin, Mali, Songhai, Zimbabwe). Trade networks, learning centers, architecture, government, customs, etc. 1400’s- mid-1800’s Trans- Atlantic Slave Trade
3
What is Imperialism? The creation and maintenance of an unequal economic, cultural and territorial relationship, usually between states and often in the form of an empire, based on domination and subordination. Powerful nations control or influence less powerful nations, taking advantage of resources and people. Imperialism has had a significant impact on the past and present in Africa.
4
European Motives for Imperialism in Africa Economic Political Cultural/Religious
5
Economic Motives European nations were going through the Industrial Revolution (factories/ manufacturing) Increased production = increased demand for raw materials Africa was a vast land filled with opportunity for raw materials. Industrial nations began looking for new markets. Industrialists wanted exclusive rights to sell in African markets.
6
Political Motives Nationalists (pride and loyalty to one’s nation) believed having colonies increased the strength and prestige of their nations. More colonies = more $$$ = more power
7
Cultural/Religious Motives People of Europe thought they had a duty to pass on their ideas/ culture and knowledge to the rest of the world. Some people went to Africa for religious reasons. They thought Christianity was superior and wanted Africans to adopt their beliefs.
8
European Claims in Africa
9
Major Imperial Powers Great Britain Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda France Western Africa, Morocco, Madagascar, Algeria Germany Tanzania, Namibia, Cameroon Belgium (Dutch) Congo, very brutal colonizers
10
European Government in Africa Direct Rule (hands on) France, Germany Imperial power controlled all levels of government Assimilation – people of the colonies would abandon their customs and adopt those of the imperial nation Indirect Rule (hands off) Great Britain British governor and a council of advisors would make colonial laws Local ruler had some power
11
African Resistance Many Africans resisted European rule with military force (Menelik II in Ethiopia) Despite the resistance, most Africans were no match for the Europeans, mainly because of the weapons of the Europeans.
12
Benefits and Cost of Imperialism Imperialism Benefits Europeans European economies grow wealthier Spread of European culture and values Comparisons to American slavery? Imperialism Hurts Africans As Europe (and U.S.) are developing, most African countries are not. Africa’s wealth does not benefit African people. Conflicts between tribes (borders) Many issues still plague Africa today
Similar presentations
© 2025 SlidePlayer.com. Inc.
All rights reserved.