Understanding the struggles of modern Africa requires an in-depth knowledge of the era known as the Scramble for Africa. The impact that Europeans had on the development of African regions they colonized was far-reaching and extremely damaging. In this activity, students will create a timeline that explains how European nations came to dominate Africa by 1914.
The timeline should address issues and subjects like:
Extension
Students can create an additional timeline that describes the independence movements in Africa in the 1950s and 1960s. A specific focus on the Congo and Patrice Lumumba would provide a good bookend to the story of Imperialism in Africa. This will allow students to have a greater understanding of the effects of imperialism and the actions taken to overcome the damages.
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Student Instructions
Create a timeline detailing the major events and actions taken during the scramble for Africa.
Debates encourage students to think critically and explore multiple perspectives about imperialism in Africa. This strategy helps students practice respectful discourse while gaining a deeper understanding of historical consequences.
Pick provocative statements such as “European imperialism brought more harm than good to Africa” or “African resistance was ultimately successful.” These topics spark discussion and require students to analyze evidence from their timelines.
Divide students into pro and con teams, or assign specific historical figures to represent. Give each group time to gather evidence from class materials and timelines to support their position.
Establish ground rules for respectful discussion, time limits, and organized turns. Moderate the debate, ensuring everyone participates and stays on topic.
Facilitate a class discussion after the debate. Ask students to share what they learned, how their views changed, and how the debate connects to their timeline research. This reinforces critical thinking and historical understanding.
The Scramble for Africa refers to the rapid invasion, colonization, and division of African territory by European powers between the 1880s and 1914. Driven by economic interests, competition for resources, and a desire for global influence, European nations raced to claim as much African land as possible.
To teach students about the Scramble for Africa, have them create a timeline highlighting key events such as the Berlin Conference, the role of David Livingstone, the colonization of the Belgian Congo, European advantages, and African resistance. Encourage them to add descriptions and illustrations to deepen understanding.
African resistance movements included efforts like Ethiopia's successful defeat of Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa and numerous uprisings across the continent. These movements showed the determination of Africans to resist European domination.
The Berlin Conference (1884-1885) set rules for the division of Africa among European powers, disregarding African borders and interests. This led to the arbitrary creation of new boundaries, causing long-term social and political problems for African nations.
Imperialism's exploitation and oppression fueled independence movements in Africa during the 1950s and 1960s. Leaders like Patrice Lumumba in Congo inspired efforts to end colonial rule and reclaim sovereignty.