Britain and the Scramble for Africa Flashcards
How was Germany a reason for Britain feeling more concerned about her rivals during the late 19th century?
German merchant ships made an increasing appearance on the high seas due to its supply of natural resources
How was Russia a reason for Britain feeling more concerned about her rivals during the late 19th century?
-Russians began to transform their economy, extending their control into Central Asia
-Russians began building a railway network and Britain feared that it could carry an army
-Russia wanted imperial expansion in North China (optional)
How was France a reason for Britain feeling more concerned about her rivals during the late 19th century?
France transformed its armed forces and had a new determination to assert its ‘rightful place’ in the world after being defeated by Germany in 1871
What challenges did Britain start to face during the late 19th century?
It began to face challenges from expanding and industrialising powers
When was the Brussels conference?
1876
What was the Brussels conference largely motivated by?
The desire to protect the King’s personal interests and holdings in the Congo
What King set up the Brussels conference?
King Leopold of Belgium
What was stated in the Brussels conference?
-European intervention in Africa was necessary
-Routes to Africa’s Great Lakes had to be developed
-An International Africa Association should he established
What did the Brussels conference promote?
Competition as European governments were suspicious of the King’s intentions
When was the Berlin conference?
1884/5
What were the initial tasks of the Berlin conference?
Initial tasks involved securing agreement that both the basins and mouths of Congo and Niger rivers were to remain neutral and open to trade
What did the Berlin conference conclude with?
The signing of the General Act
What did the General Act cover?
-All nations should be permitted to trade in the basin of the Congo
-Free trade in all nations
-Powers should help protect the indigenous people
-Powers should support and protect religions
What did the General Act trigger?
A further scramble for territory across Africa
By 1900, what percentage of Africa was in European hands?
About 90%
