2. Imperial Consolidation And Liberal Rule c.1890-1914 - Consolidation And Expansion Of The British Empire In Africa Flashcards
What had British policy in Africa been like up until the 1880s?
They had established bases for their strategic value or for the purpose of trade. This involved reacting to the initiatives of other powers and Private chartered companies had been used to occupy and administer territory
How did the reasons and methods for British consolidation in Africa Change?
- The conservative government elected in 1895 wanted to uphold British position all over the world, meaning British imperialism took on a less haphazard appearance - British protectorates were expanded for better security, to existing ports, markets or resources and new territories were taken to reduce the advancements of European imperialists. Britain expanded interests and possessions via the domino effect
What did the Berlin conference 1884-85 mean for imperial powers?
They had to show evidence of their ‘effective occupation’ of African territories in order to gain a formal colony
The extent of British expansion in Africa examples:
Sierra Leone was acquired in 1808 however a protectorate was established in 1896, Nyasaland was acquired in 1891 however BSAC rule was replaced by a protectorate in 1907, Transvaal was integrated into the British union of S.Africa in 1902, a southern rhodesia protectorate was established in 1901 and northern rhoadesia in 1911 and the Royal Nigeria Company rule converted into a British colony in 1900
What does the occupation of these territories by chartered companies show?
Evidence of ‘effective occupation’ on behalf of Britain meant control was too formal because the costs for companies were unsustainable
What were key British expansions in West Africa?
Ashantiland and Nigeria
How did Britain gain control of Ashantiland?
After the king, Prempeh refused British control which led to a fourth Anglo-Asante war. This resulted in Britain conquering Asante territory and force Prempeh from his throne in 1896 - Britain’s formal annexation meant Ashantiland was incorporated into the gold coast colony in 1902
How did Britain gain control of Nigeria?
An 1890 agreement with the French meant they recognised British dominance of Nigeria in return for their claim to Madagascar. British control was established in 1900 in the south and 1906 in the north and they took over RNC responsibility
What were key British expansions in East Africa?
Zanzibar, Uganda, Sudan, Kenya, Somaliland
How did Britain gain control of Zanzibar?
In 1890, Britain and Germany signed a treaty establishing spheres of influence in East Africa and Britain soon declared Zanzibar as part of its protectorate
What happened after the khalid of Zanzibar refused to step down?
Khalid was ordered to stand down but refused and cause Britain to mount a naval bomardment of the sultan’s palace - however this was recorded as the ‘shortest war in history’ at 38 minutes as 500 defenders were killed and khalid was overthrown and replaced by pro British sultan Hamud
Why was the war between Britain and Zanzibar known as the ‘shortest war in history’?
Khalid was defeated in 38 minutes, 500 were killed and he was overthrown. The pro British sultan Hamid was placed on the throne and he ruled for 6 years
How did Britain gain control of Uganda?
In 1890, an agreement was made between mwanga and Britain to give Britain control under the BEAC and the Ugandan railway was used to consolidate power
Why were Britain interested in Kenya?
As a result of the Berlin conference, Kenya was placed into the British sphere of influence in east Africa. They saw it as useful territory due to its route from the coast to Uganda.
What were the challenges of gaining control of Kenya?
Sheikh Mbaruk Bin Rashud was given weapons from the Germans to fight against the British however after 9 months they were crushed and Mbaruk fled, meaning this territory became a part of BEA’s protectorate in 1895
