Scramble for Africa

Question 1

Berlin Conference

Answer 1

1884-5

Legitimised colonisation of Africa
Africa was divided up (90% European owned by 1900)
Principle of effective occupation (a power can claim a territory and if no other power had a claim it was accepted)
Tried to avoid European conflicts

Question 2

Brussels Conference

Answer 2

1876

Held by King Leopold

Concluded Europeans should take control of African resources

Created more competition

Question 3

Relations with Boers up to 1890

Answer 3

Boers were fiercely independent

Hostilities began when slaves were emancipated (Boer farmers relied on free labour)

Boers allowed to self govern (Transvaal and Orange Free State formed) until Brits annexed Transvaal after discovery of diamonds in 1867.

Teamed up to defeat Zulus at Ulundi 1875 and Boers declared independence after this

Tensions simmered until Brits won 1st Boer War 1880-1

British South Africa Company under Rhodes received chater in 1889 and gained control of Mashonaland

Question 4

Relations with Bantu People up to 1890

Answer 4

Brits annexed Basutoland and took West Griqualind

Little thought given to them throughout this expansion

Lived segregated, limited rights for Bantus and settlers kept all the wealth

Question 5

Suez Canal

Answer 5

Opened in 1869

Became quick route to India
Previously Britain had the most control over Asia (particularly India) where they controlled the SA waters.

Egypt being a veiled protectorate and Disraelis £4m shares gave the British greater control over this new route to India

Question 6

Reasons for increased interest in Africa

Answer 6

Industrial Revolution allowed steamship and weapon mass production allowed foothold in Africa

Africa had desirable resources, minerals and materials (gold diamonds and steel)

Strategic reasons - protection of trade routes

Explorers and Individuals (Rhodes etc) stimulated interest after gold and diamond location