1.18 Foreign Policy: Decolonisation Flashcards
Which country became the first black African republic in the Commonwealth in 1957?
Ghana became the first black African republic in the Commonwealth.
When did Nigeria achieve independence?
Nigeria achieved independence in 1960 after overcoming significant self-government difficulties.
What movement resisted British rule in Kenya in the 1950s?
The Mau Mau movement (1951-56) resisted British rule in Kenya, leading to a state of emergency and a significant loss of life.
What happened to the Central African Federation (Nyasaland and Rhodesia)?
After the federation dissolved, Nyasaland became Malawi, and Northern Rhodesia became Zambia in 1965.
Why did Britain begin to withdraw from its empire after 1956?
Britain withdrew due to a decline in its economic position, increased demands for power from nationalist movements, and changes in overseas trade patterns
What did Prime Minister Macmillan refer to as the ‘wind of change’?
Macmillan referred to the increasing tide of decolonisation and nationalist movements across the empire as the ‘wind of change’.
What impact did World War II have on colonies?
WWII raised expectations of independence among colonies.
What led to demands for political autonomy in colonies?
Modernisation and mobilisation in the colonies led to demands for political autonomy.
How did the USSR influence nationalist movements?
The USSR influenced nationalist leaders, provided weapons, and spread anti-British propaganda.
When did India and Burma gain independence from Britain?
Britain granted independence to India and Burma in the 1940s.
What encouraged nationalists in French North Africa during the late 1950s?
Success in South East Asia led to nationalist movements in French North Africa, contributing to the Algerian Crisis.
What major decolonizations occurred after Ghana’s independence in 1957?
France decolonised its West African possessions, Belgium withdrew from the Congo, and many African and Caribbean countries gained independence.
What impacted Britain’s trade needs after 1959?
Businesses prioritised trading with the USA and Europe over the Empire.
How did the Cold War influence decolonisation?
With the USSR and China encouraging anti-colonial factions, Britain aimed to keep former colonies in its influence by having them join the Commonwealth.
What happened to South Africa’s relationship with the Commonwealth in 1961?
South Africa was expelled from the Commonwealth against Macmillan’s wishes due to criticism for failing to withdraw investment or boycott South African products.
