European Colonization Of Africa Dbq

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There is much controversy behind the reasons that led to the colonization in Africa. In the 18th century many European powers colonized Africa. By 1860, only 20% of Africa was claimed. However in 1880, the situation had changed drastically. On November 15, 1884 and February 26, 1885, representatives from 14 European countries came together in the Berlin Conference to set a set of rules and to divide up Africa. No African representatives were present. By 1914, all of Africa was colonized except for Liberia and Ethiopia. So what were the reasons for such a wide-scale invasion? While there were many factors that led to the European invasion of Africa, like technology and cultural beliefs, the key driving forces were national competition and economics. In the next two chapters, we will take a close look at both, English and German beliefs. …show more content…
In a talk at Oxford, John Ruskin says, “This is what England must either do or perish; she must found colonies as fast and as far as she is able… their [The British Parliament] first aim is to be to advance the power of England by land and by sea” (Doc B). In a book by German author Friedrich Fabri cites; “It would be wise if we Germans engage-in a friendly competition- to strive after them...To bring Germany back to its peak, we must no longer delay the colonial task ahead” (Doc B). This evidence illustrates how national competition played a big role in the colonization of Africa. John Ruskin and Friedrich Fabri believed that it should be a priority to compete for lands in Africa because it will either increase their power and dominance, or leave them behind if they did not. Even if some European countries, initially, had no intention of colonizing Africa, national competition pushed them in the