Question

How is the history of colonialism in Africa related to the currently failed states of Africa? a. colonialism prevented migration to Africa. b. colonialism created ethnic tensions. c. colonialism increased the price of raw materials. d. colonialism caused quick industrialization.

Answer 1

The history of colonialism in Africa is deeply connected to the current issues of failed states in the region, primarily through imposed governance structures, disrupted ethnic territories, and an economic legacy of dependency and underdevelopment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The history of colonialism in Africa is intricately linked to the challenges faced by failed states on the continent today. Colonial powers imposed boundaries and governance structures that disrupted traditional ethnic territories and social systems. The imposition of a two-tiered system of governance over African political institutions led to the development of complex ethnic tensions, as colonial rulers often favored certain groups over others. This has had lasting impacts on post-colonial state stability. Additionally, the colonial focus on resource extraction without the development of a connected transportation or economic infrastructure hindered the ability of African nations to create a self-sustaining, diversified economy post-independence.

European colonization involved the forceful restructuring of African societies, where a class divide was cultivated to enforce colonial policies, often disrupting existing social orders. The legacy of colonialism can be witnessed in the arbitrary national boundaries drawn without consideration for ethnic or cultural divisions. This disruption has been a root cause for many of the violent ethnic conflicts seen today. Moreover, the lack of economic development and the continued dependence of African economies on former colonial powers have contributed to widespread poverty and government corruption.

In summary, the role of colonialism has been central in shaping the present-day political and economic turmoil within many African nations. It has created a foundation upon which many post-colonial states have been unable to build stable and prosperous societies.

Answer 2

The correct answer is option b - colonialism created ethnic tensions.

Colonialism heavily influenced the formation of current failed states in Africa by creating ethnic tensions, arbitrary national boundaries, and an economic legacy of dependency and underdevelopment.

The history of colonialism in Africa is closely related to the current failed states on the continent. Colonialism disrupted traditional political systems and prevented the rise of a wealthy capitalist class, as Africans were excluded from significant trade and industrial opportunities. Colonial rulers imposed arbitrary borders during the Berlin Conference, disregarding indigenous territories, which later contributed to ethnic tensions and conflict.

This led to a legacy of economic dependency, underdevelopment, and political instability which persist in various African states today. The ethnic tensions fueled by the colonial preference for certain groups over others have been instrumental in creating conflicts that devastate many postcolonial African states.

These tensions were further exacerbated by the division of ethnic groups and forced amalgamation of hostile groups within new national boundaries, resulting in frequent violent conflicts.