Imperialism: Motives and Impacts

A movement fueled by industrialization that led to the systematic takeover of territories, especially in Africa and Asia, by European powers.

The Industrial Revolution greatly contributed to European Imperialism by providing technological advancements such as: better transportation, powerful weapons, improved military strength, and expanded communication networks.

The belief that the Anglo-Saxon race was superior and destined to rule the world, often used to justify imperial expansion.

The spreading of Christianity to new territories as a way to justify imperial expansion and convert indigenous people.

The 1884-1885 conference in Berlin where European powers, including Britain, France, Germany, and Belgium, divided Africa among themselves, without African input.

The Scramble for Africa was a period of intense competition between European powers to claim territory in Africa during the late 19th century. This led to the partitioning of the continent without regard for existing boundaries or cultures.

Missionaries in Nigeria aimed to spread Christianity, end slavery, and promote European cultural values, sometimes working with local leaders but generally promoting European dominance.

The Berlin Act of 1885 set rules for trade and colonization in Africa after the Berlin Conference, attempting to limit future conflicts between European powers.

The period between 1400 and 1800 CE saw Europeans significantly intensify the transatlantic slave trade, exploiting Africa's resources and labor. This resulted in millions of enslaved Africans being forcibly transported to the Americas, where they endured brutal conditions.

Before WWI, Christian Nigerians largely welcomed the colonial presence while Muslim Nigerians fiercely resisted it, engaging in wars and actively maintaining Islamic education. Rural communities also staged various rebellions, while elites and urban dwellers worked within the colonial system to advocate for reform.

The hopes of Nigerians for increased rights after their contributions in WWI were dashed as the British continued their system of indirect rule and expanded their control. However, during WWII, the British acknowledged the injustices of colonialism and initiated programs to prepare Nigeria for self-government, culminating in the establishment of three new constitutions.

After independence, Nigeria faced numerous challenges in establishing national unity, grappling with colonial-imposed boundaries. Political disputes over government control and economic resources fueled tensions, exacerbated by widespread corruption. Violent riots, election manipulation, and government failures added to the instability.

The Biafran secession, driven by the struggle for national identity, ethnic tensions, political instability, and religious differences, led to the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). The conflict resulted in the deaths of millions, displacement, economic devastation, and lasting ethnic divisions.

The Nigerian Civil War left a devastating impact. It resulted in millions of deaths, including many Igbos, mostly from starvation. Millions were displaced, infrastructure was destroyed, and the economy suffered greatly. While the war led to a temporary sense of unity, deep-seated ethnic differences persisted. The military continued to hold power, and Nigeria's heavy reliance on oil became a defining characteristic.

Despite the challenges faced by Nigeria in its early years after independence, it emerged as a nation navigating national identity, overcoming legacies of colonialism, and grappling with internal tensions. Its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and the potential of its vast resources hold promise for a brighter future.

The Nigerian Civil War highlighted the deep-seated ethnic and political tensions within the country. It also forced Nigeria to confront the consequences of its heavy dependence on oil. While the war left scars, it served as a catalyst for future discussions about national identity, unity, and the need for inclusive governance.