European Imperialism In Africa

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The Continent of Africa has often been given negative stereotypes such as “poor” or “helpless” by people oblivious to its history. The people who stereotype Africa tend to have little to no knowledge of how imperialism affected them. Surrounding imperialistic countries stripped Africa of its precious resources while suppressing the natives. There were numerous reasons as to why imperialism was spread to Africa, including economic reasons, moral duty, and competition.

Countries surrounding Africa had a desire to expand their reign and increase their wealth. They saw Africa as a perfect opportunity to do so. Many resources indigenous to Africa, such as cotton, gold, copper, and coal, fetched high prices and helped Europe advance technologically. Africa, however, was not as advanced, leaving them unable to refine their resources, let …show more content…

Many Europeans rejected the idea of visiting Africa due to difficulties of travel and hazardous geography, but felt it their responsibility to civilize its people. The Europeans took up the “burden” by trying to bring peace to wars, food to the starving, and abolish disease and sickness. They also found it to be their responsibility to teach them Christianity. If the people refused to accept Christ into their lives, they would be punished with death.

One of the last factors that encouraged the spread of imperialism was competion. The countries of Europe craved the resources and crop within the vast lands of Africa, and seized their opportunity of being all powerful. For example, England desired “seizing every piece of fruitful waste ground,” so they could spreading their power of land and sea. Germany wished to remain in it newly won position of power, and Africa gave them exactly what they needed. Resources weren’t the only reason Europe invaded, but because Europe was filled with greed only Africa’s land could

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