Conferences

Question 1

Brussels Conference- when and who?

Answer 1

1876

-Held by King Leopold of Belgium for the leaders from geographical societies across Europe

Question 2

Brussels Conference conclusions?

Answer 2

• Africans were incapable of developing natural resources
• European intervention in Africa was necessary
• Routes to great lakes must be opened with infrastructure

Question 3

Effects of Brussels Conference? (esp in Congo)

Answer 3

Increased European superstition: International African Association sent Henry Morton Stanley to advise in Congo region and became apparent that Leopold wanted his own Congo Empire
French and German hired explorers- and Portugal asserted claims to control mouth of Congo River in 1884

Question 4

Berlin Conference- when, why and who?

Answer 4

84-85

Hosted by Bismarck and representatives of major powers attended to divide up Africa

Question 5

Berlin Conference- ideas discussed/negotiated?

Answer 5

Powers negotiate their respective claims to territory; ‘spheres of influence’ established;
key ideas re free trade and accessible communication (esp near the Congo)
Believed there should be co-operation amongst the European powers
Effective occupation principle

Question 6

Effective occupation?

Answer 6

A European power could assert claim to land if it was effectively occupied by them ie if it had local administration set up

Question 7

What did Berlin conference lead to?

Answer 7

Mainly because of idea of effective occupation, led to scramble for Africa: by 1890, 90% of Africa in European hands vs 1870, 10% of Africa was occupied