Scramble for Africa: Leopold II, Otto von Bismarck, and the Berlin Conference

Study Notes

Berlin Conference and Otto von Bismarck

The Berlin Conference (1884-1885), led by Otto von Bismarck, regulated European colonization in Africa.
Major outcome was the formalization of territorial claims among European powers, leading to the "Scramble for Africa."
The conference aimed to avoid conflict among European nations over African territories by establishing rules for partitioning the continent.

King Leopold II and the Congo

King Leopold II of Belgium exploited the Congo through brutal labor practices, forcing local populations into rubber extraction.
His actions resulted in significant human rights abuses, widespread death, and economic exploitation under the guise of humanitarianism.
The Congo Free State became a personal possession of Leopold, generating vast wealth for him while devastating the region's inhabitants.

Dissolution of the British East India Company

The British East India Company was shut down following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which highlighted the need for direct British control to prevent further unrest.
The British government assumed control of India, marking the start of the British Raj and a unified colonial administration.
The change aimed to stabilize British rule and increase efficiency after the revolt demonstrated the company's inability to manage its territories effectively.

Western Powers' Strategy in China

Western powers utilized "spheres of influence" to gain control over trade in different regions of China, circumventing direct governance.
Economic pressure and military force were deployed to negotiate unequal treaties, granting Western nations significant privileges and territorial rights.
The Opium Wars exemplified this strategy, leading to forced trade agreements and concessions that benefitted Western economies at the expense of China.

Britain's Conquest of India

Britain's conquest of India involved military intervention, strategic alliances with local rulers, and exploiting social divisions.
The establishment of dominance began with victories in regional conflicts, such as the Battle of Plassey (1757).
British control was solidified through both economic exploitation and military presence, transforming India into a key part of the British Empire.

Economic Imperialism in China

Western powers imposed economic imperialism through controlled trade and exploitation of local resources, limiting China’s sovereignty.
Foreign powers established trade ports and dominated key industries, significantly tilting economic benefits toward their nations.
This system resulted in wealth extraction from China while fostering dependency and undermining local economies and governance.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Scramble for Africa, Leopold II's colonial activities, Otto von Bismarck's role, and the outcomes of the Berlin Conference. Learn about the alliances, conflicts, and consequences of European powers dividing up Africa during the 19th century.