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What Was the Driving Force Behind European Imperialism in Africa

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Submitted By bender8710
Words 634
Pages 3
Andres Lugo
Professor William Hendricks
March 17, 2015
World Civilizations II
Domination of resources The European powers that were in much need for resources during the 1500s through 1800s were Great Britain, France and Germany. During 1500 and 1800 Africa seemed like an impossible feat to conquer because of malaria but this wouldn’t stop the persistence of the leaders of France and Great Britain. The idea of exploring and conquering new land meant more to these leaders because of the motivation to keep their national security strong and keep their economy stronger. These countries would use their remaining resources to look for more disposable ones so that their empires could grow considerably. Great Britain would be dug in the south and spread out through Africa, while the French would have most of the North and West of Africa, but Germany would just conquer a handful of countries before going into the 20th century (263 DBQ). These countries would soon become opponents in one of the greatest territory conquest in the world’s history. Resources is the main point in all three of these powers because Great Britain looked at the world as control, the thought of ruling land to them meant more power. A very important reason these powers would fight for this piece of land is because of the potential wealth it holds but also because the countries would see it that the Africans needed help. Turning the conquerors into saviors and that is always a good feeling when possibly it is not the case as the poem “White Man’s Burden,” by Rudyard Kipling would mention. “Take up the White Man’s burden, Send out the best ye breed…. To serve your captive’s need” (273 DBQ). Great Britain, Germany and Frace would soon find out that Africa not only big in land, but possibly even greater in resources. This would include slaves, gold and ivory. Germany would soon want to

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