The Geographic, Political, and Ethnic Impact European Colonialism Has Played on the Present History of Africa

There is an ongoing debate on how the current political and economic failures in Africa can be traced back to the advent of colonialism. There is a great deal of evidence that illustrates the impact that colonialism and foreign intervention has had a negative effect on the development of present history of Africa. This essay will attempt to examine the geographic, political and ethnic impact European colonialism has played on the development of the African, and how these contributions have put Africa on its current trajectory.

Initial European interest in Africa appeared humanitarian. Many of the imperial nations seemed interested in acting on behalf of Africa, on issues ranging from the prohibition of slavery to development and infrastructure projects. For instance, the trading of slaves was very common throughout Africa, until it the early 20 century. Capturing and trading individuals into slavery was not restricted to the Arabs and Europeans, in many cases Africans also took part in this practice. In many instances, African kingdoms and clans earned more by trading prisoners into slavery. However, in the long-term, Africa lost major producers of agriculture and individuals how could have potentially cultivated Africa’s economic future.

The 1984 Berlin Conference was held to determine on how to best to regulate European colonialism in Africa. Aside from prohibiting slavery, which European and other foreign actors introduced to Africa, the colonial powers operated on the premise they were acting in the interests of Africa, to protect the African states from themselves and outside actors. However, it was apparent the European powers for interests, especially when they recognized how much economic potential was at stake....

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.... They were created to ensure that the individuals comply with colonial rules and regulations.” It is with this framework that some African leaders have continued to follow.

Works Cited

Schraeder, Peter J. (2004). African Politics and Society: A Mosaic in Transformation. Thomas‐

Wadsworth Press. “Part II: Political and Economic Impacts of Colonialism”, Chapter 3

MONCRIEFFE, JOY. "UGANDA’S POLITICAL ECONOMY: A SYNTHESIS OF MAJOR THOUGHT." Overseas Development Institute. Web. .

Easterly, William. The White Man's Burden: Why the West's Efforts to Aid the Rest Have Done so Much Ill and so Little Good. New York: Penguin, 2006. Print.

Schraeder, Peter J. (2004). African Politics and Society: A Mosaic in Transformation. Thomas‐

Wadsworth Press. “Part II: Political and Economic Impacts of Colonialism”, Chapter 3