WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -While the buildup took centuries, the European conquest of Africa was over in a lightning fast 15 years. At its end, there were only two African states remaining: Ethiopia and Liberia. The question of why these two countries survived while so many failed has intrigued historians since the 19th century.

Detailed explanation-2: -Industrialisation created a huge demand for raw materials and led to the colonisation of Africa and Asia for these resources. Industrialisation and technological progress boosted European and American confidence, and national pride.

Detailed explanation-3: -Through the use of direct military force, economic spheres of influence, and annexation, European countries dominated the continents of Africa and Asia. By 1914, Great Britain controlled the largest number of colonies, and the phrase, “the sun never sets on the British Empire, ‘’ described the vastness of its holdings.

Detailed explanation-4: -European imperialism in Africa started in the early 1800s when South Africa, then a colony of Great Britain, began to spread outwards. Imperialism only went into high gear, however, when King Leopold of Belgium sent trade representatives to the region of central Africa, called the Congo.

Detailed explanation-5: -Portugal expanded its control over Angola and Mozambique, Belgium took over the giant Congo region, and Germany gained new colonies in southern Africa. Britain and France, the big winners, gained new territory in West Africa, and Britain built a network of colonies in East Africa running from South Africa to Egypt.