The Beginning Of Empire And Africa

Question 1

Why did Britain want an Empire?

Answer 1

1) Trade - Britain was a sea-fairing nation for many centuries. Raw materials were needed to grow industry. Britain acquired a cheap steady supply of raw materials and goods could be sold to other colonies in the empire, trading companies set up.
2) Strategic reasons - Gibraltar, Malta and the Falkland Islands provided important naval bases to protect trade routes and colonies. Britain also stopped other european countries from taking them.
3) Religious/Cultural beliefs - Christianising what they saw as ‘uncivilised savages’. Many Christian missionaries.
4) Competition - Imperialist policy in Europe created a ‘land grab’ in Africa. Competition continues to grow.

Question 2

What is imperialism?

Answer 2

The policy of extending a country’s power through colonisation.

Question 3

What is a colony?

Answer 3

A country or area under full or partial political control of another country.

Question 4

What does ethnocentric mean?

Answer 4

The belief in the inherent superiority of one’s own ethnic group.

Question 5

What are the advantages of Empire?

Answer 5

• Size
• Trade
• Resources
• Markets
• Strategic advantages
• Status

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of Empire?

Answer 6

• Size
• Protection
• Cost
• Defence
• Jealousy/rivalry from rival countries
• Threat from indigenous peoples

Question 7

Why did Britain look to expand in Africa?

Answer 7

• Swing to the East after American revolution.
• Impact of industrial revolution ( new ships and weapons).
• Trade (mineral wealth, cattle, etc).
• Investment opportunities.
• Getting resources from Africa to manufacture goods to sell beck to Africa or elsewhere.
• Increased sale markets (‘cycle of dependency’).
• Strategic reasons (protection of trade routes, etc).
• Strong personalities (merchants capitalised on commodities)
• Missionary reasons.
• Explorers.