The Scramble for Africa, which occurred between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, marked a drastic shift in colonial ambitions and territorial conquests on the African continent. This period is characterized by a significant acceleration in the acquisition of African territories by European powers, transforming the landscape of the continent from one with limited colonial presence to nearly complete domination by external forces.
Expansion of Colonial Possessions
Prior to 1800, European nations had established a relatively small number of colonies in Africa, primarily along the coastlines. The vast majority of the continent remained under the control of indigenous peoples. However, by the dawn of the 20th century, the situation had changed dramatically. Almost the entire African continent was carved up into territories governed by European powers. Notable exceptions at the time included Liberia, which was under the protection of the United States; Morocco, which would soon be overtaken by France; Libya, which Italy later annexed; and Ethiopia, which managed to maintain its independence.
Germany’s Entry into Colonialism
A key aspect of this new wave of imperialism was Germany’s emergence as a colonial power. In a series of declarations from May 1884 to February 1885, Germany staked claims to territories in South West Africa (now Namibia), Togoland (present-day Togo), Cameroon, and parts of the East African coast opposite Zanzibar. This marked Germany’s first significant foray into colonial expansion, signaling its intention to join the ranks of established colonial empires such as Britain and France.
Belgium and Italy Join the Race
The scramble for Africa was not limited to the traditional colonial powers. Belgium and Italy, two smaller European nations, also sought to establish their presence on the continent. Belgium, through King Leopold II’s personal crusade, notoriously took control of the Congo Free State, while Italy set its sights on regions in the Horn of Africa. Furthermore, Portugal and Spain, which had previously been active during the earlier periods of exploration and colonization, renewed their efforts to acquire more African territory.
Increased Competition and Rivalry
The entry of multiple European nations into the race for African colonies intensified competition and heightened the sense of urgency to claim lands. This era saw an increased focus on preclusive occupation—securing territories to prevent rivals from gaining a foothold. Military strategies also evolved to include the creation of buffer zones for defense purposes. Additionally, the economic climate was changing from a preference for free trade to protective tariffs and the establishment of exclusive markets. This shift further fueled the desire for protected overseas markets, as nations sought to secure economic advantages for themselves.
Impact of Protective Tariffs
The move towards protective tariffs and discriminatory practices in both domestic and colonial markets underscored the economic motivations behind the scramble for Africa. European nations were eager to ensure that their newly acquired territories would serve as captive markets for their manufactured goods and sources of raw materials. This economic imperative often led to the exploitation of African resources and labor, with little regard for the well-being of the indigenous populations.
Questions for UPSC
– How did the entry of new colonial powers like Germany, Belgium, and Italy influence the dynamics of the scramble for Africa?
– In what ways did the shift from free trade to protective tariffs and discriminatory practices in colonies impact the economies of the colonized African territories?
– Considering the strategic importance of buffer zones during the scramble for Africa, how did military considerations shape the boundaries and governance of the newly acquired territories?