How did Government Policy Towards Africa Change? Flashcards
Where was Britains largest area in Africa before 1880?
South Africa (Cape Colony and Natal)
Why did Britain have colonies South Africa before 1880?
To protect routes to India and Australia
Where didn’t Britain have colonies in Africa before 1880?
North or East Africa
What remained untouched by Britain in Africa before 1880?
The interior of Africa
How much of Africa was secured between 1880 and 1900 and by who (4 countries)?
About 90% of the continent was seized by Britain, France, Germany and Belgium
What did Gladstone order in 1882 and what was its significance?
He ordered the occupation of Egypt which many see as the start of the European partition of Africa
What did the Suez Canal become?
The quick route to India
Why was the Suez Canal so significant for the British Empire?
Because they have a huge amount of trade with India
How was Britains policy in Africa a turning point in European attitudes towards Africa?
After this rule the scramble for Africa lands by European lands began
What Sudanese Islamic cleric did the British administers face opposition from in Sudan up to 1885?
Muhammad Ahmad
What did Muhammad Ahmad proclaim himself as?
The Mahdi / saviour of mankind
What did the Mahdists sought to do?
Liberate Sudan from outside rule
Why didn’t Gladstone retaliate to his entire garrison basically being killed by the Mahdists?
He didn’t retaliate as he wanted to avoid further loss of life and money for no clear gain
Political reasons for Britain’s change in policy in North Africa
Egyptian nationalism would have freed Egypt from Turkish control and allowed them to form alliances with other European powers which was a clear thread to Britain
Economic reasons for Britain’s change in policy in North Africa
Significant financial investments in Egypt. Trade with Egypt was vital to protect revenue of trade routes to India
