Imperialism in Africa

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Questions and Answers

How did the introduction of steam-powered riverboats impact European exploration in Africa?

They allowed Europeans to navigate further into the interior via major rivers. (correct)
They diminished the importance of coastal regions, spurring an emphasis on interior territories.
They replaced the need for African trade networks, granting Europeans more control.
They decreased the spread of disease, making the interior more accessible.

What was a key difference between the motives claimed by King Leopold II and the actual practices in the Congo?

He asserted a desire to abolish the slave trade and promote Christianity, but instead licensed companies that brutally exploited Africans. (correct)
He wanted to establish a democratic government but instead installed a monarchy.
He publicly opposed the slave trade while privately engaging in it for economic gain.
He claimed to promote Christianity but instead imposed traditional Belgian beliefs.

What role did publications like travel books and newspapers play in promoting European interest in Africa?

They played a minor role as very few people had access to them at the time.
They discouraged interest with accurate portrayals of the dangers of disease.
They competed for readers by publishing stories of adventure, mystery, and excitement. (correct)
They helped in advocating for the end of colonial expansion due to ethical concerns.

What differentiated the goals of missionaries from the economic interests driving European imperialism in Africa?

Missionaries aimed to abolish slavery and 'civilize' or 'westernize' local populations whereas imperialists were driven by raw materials and new markets. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of the Maxim gun on European conquest in Africa?

It was the world's first automatic machine gun, giving Europeans a significant technological advantage. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the discovery of diamonds and gold in South Africa affect European interest in the continent?

It increased European interest and colonization efforts as nations sought wealth. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of the Berlin Conference in 1884-85?

To prevent conflict among European nations by establishing rules for dividing Africa. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What key factor motivated the Boers to begin the Great Trek in the 1830s?

To escape British rule and establish independent republics. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the tactics used by the British during the Boer War that are controversial?

Burning Boer farms and imprisoning women and children in disease-ridden concentration camps. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the long-term impact of the establishment of colonies on the lives of Africans?

It signaled a change in their way of life, with Europeans attempting to change their political, social, and economic structures. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the underlying principle behind the policy of paternalism?

Africans were unable to handle the complexities of running a country, and should be governed as a parent. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did Samori Touré resist French Imperialism?

By modernizing his army and engaging in military conflict. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why was Ethiopia's resistance to European colonization so unique and successful?

Its success was due to Menelik II, who played European powers against each other while modernizing his military. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What constituted the most harmful political legacy of the colonial period in Africa?

The division of the African continent with no consideration towards ethnic or linguistic groups. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What exemplifies a long-term impact of colonial rule on African culture?

Breakdown of traditional cultures coupled with admiration of a European life. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Imperialism

Seizure of a country or territory by a stronger country.

Racism

Belief that one race is superior to others.