European Imperialism Dbq Analysis

The majestic and beautiful continent of Africa has a disappearing past and culture because of European Imperialism. All of the countries in Europe, except Switzerland, divvied up countries of Africa for their own benefit in 1884 and 1885. People like King Leopold of Belgium used natives in Africa for labor after the trans-Atlantic slave trade was outlawed. The culture that was spread during this time of imperialism, the national pride gained by taking over another’s land, and most importantly, the resources gained during this period, are the most influential reasons that Europe decided that this was a good decision. Cultural spread occurred which is a reason for this European imperialism. As Europe, and particularly Britain, tried to take over Africa, they also forced their structure of culture into the natives’ way of living.“Your new-caught, sullen peoples / Half-devil and half-child…” (Doc F). This quote shows that the Europeans thought little of the African natives and thought they needed to be taught

“seizing every piece of fruitful waste ground she can set her foot on, and there teaching these her colonists… that their first aim is to be to advance the power of England by land and by sea” (Doc B). The increase of land and power also increased the status of said country who is gaining this land. Pride in a country comes from what others think of the country and it’s status. The British gained seventeen colonies in Africa in the dividing of its lands in 1884 and 1885 (Doc A). This shows that when more land is gained, countries around you respect your abilities and standing amongst other countries. This connects to Europe’s desire to take over Africa because it gains respect from others. Although cultural spread and power were tempting reasons to take control of Africa, the main source of appeal were the