Sociology and Anthropology Term Paper

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Sociology and Anthropology

After 1880, Africa underwent a major transformation with the European powers effectively dividing the continent among themselves. Over the next 100 years, nearly every major decision affecting the region would be made in a European capital. Then, each nation was able to gain their independence. To fully understand what took place requires: carefully examining the rationale for imperialism in Africa and studying the British vs. French colonizing missions. These factors will highlight the kinds of approaches that were used by the Europeans and the long-term impact of colonization. (Ciment, 2007, pp. 19 -- 24)

The Rationale for Imperialism in Africa

The Europeans had different reasons for colonizing Africa. A few of the most notable include: to protect their own economic interests, maintain a balance of power and control key areas that are strategic importance. In the case of protecting their own economic interests, the Europeans believed that Africa could provide them with vast amounts of natural resources. When a rival country moved into the region, is the point that there was a change in focus with many concentrating on using these natural resources for their own benefits. (Ciment, 2007, pp. 19 -- 24)

To prevent one country from becoming overly dominant, many nations often wanted to control as many areas as possible.

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This gave them more power and influence in determining who occupied specific regions. Once this occurred, is when the different nations could use this as a tool for maintaining their position on the world stage. (Ciment, 2007, pp. 19 -- 24)

Controlling key areas of strategic importance is when many nations wanted to dominate a piece of land. This was considered to be significant for commerce and transportation (i.e. The British occupying the Suez Canal). Over the course of time, this gave a particular country, specific advantages within the region. The combination of these factors is showing how the Europeans believed that the colonization of Africa was rational (from their perspective). (Ciment, 2007, pp. 19 -- 24)

British vs. French Colonizing Missions

The British followed a loose system that allowed African officials to maintain control in many regions. Under this approach, the British set the objectives, guidelines and provided the funding for a host of different projects. Any kind of natural resources were transported back to England. This is where they were used to produce manufactured goods that were sold to the general public. From the political perspective, the British ran the national affairs for the country. However, they also allowed local officials to control different.....

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