For supporters of European colonialism in Africa, the most important economic benefit to Africa during the colonial period was the provision of an infrastructure of roads, railways, harbors
In this section, we want to access the legacies of European colonialism in Africa. As the African Historian Adu Boahen, points out: “Nothing has become more controversial now than the question of the nature of the impact of colonialism on Africa.” Broadly speaking, we have one side of the spectrum, those described as European or Eurocentric historians such as L.H Gann, P. Duignan, Margery Perham, P.C Lloyd, D.K Fieldhouse – who contend that the impact was both negative and positive with the positive aspects far outweighing the negative ones.
In fact, we are reminded in the book, BURDEN OF EMPIRE, by L.H Gann and P. Duignan that: “The imperial system stands out as one of the most powerful engines for cultural diffusion in the history of Africa; its credit balance for outweighs its deficit account.” On the other hand, there are those Africanist or Afrocentric historians who maintain that Colonialism made no positive impact on Africa.
In this assignment, we will be critically exploring these arguments.
For supporters of European colonialism in Africa, the most important economic benefit to Africa during the colonial period was the provision of an infrastructure of roads, railways, harbors the telegraph, and the telephone systems. How do you evaluate this claim? In your submission, please examine both the negative and positive aspects.
A second important economic impact seen as a benefit of European colonialism was the development of the primary sector of Africa’s economy. The argument is that it was during this period that the mineral potential of many African countries was discovered, and modern scientific mining introduced. How do you evaluate this claim? Do you see this beneficial or not beneficial?
How did the colonial economic system lead to the delay of industrial and technological developments in Africa?
Rodney notes that “the most decisive failure of colonialism in Africa was its failure to change the technology of agricultural production. The vast majority of Africans, Rodney contends (p.219) went into colonialism with a hoe and came out with a hoe.” Critically respond to this claim by Rodney. In your response indicate with examples why you may agree or disagree with Rodney.
There is a claim that the sum total of all colonial economic changes during the colonial period saw the complete integration of African’s economy into the World economy. Do you see this claim as beneficial or harmful to Africa? In your discussion pay attention to both the positive and negative elements.
Did the monetization of the colonial economy benefit Africans in the colonial period? Please support your responses with concrete historical examples.
Did Africans benefit from the provision of medical facilities during the colonial period? Support your claims with concrete examples.
How will you describe colonial education? Do you see it as beneficial to the African or not? Support your response with concrete examples.
Do you see the political legacies of colonialism to Africa as positive or negative? Support your response with concrete examples.
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