PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Imperialism in Africa grew significantly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Until about 1875, the European people only inhabited small portions of Africa. After the ending of slave trade however, a lively commerce developed from the trading of African ivory, gold, and palm oil for European textiles, guns, and manufactured goods. Because of this trade, the Europeans saw a growing economic opportunity in Africa.
European imperial powers quickly colonized almost all of the African continent. Desires for expansion of land, trade, and economic opportunities caused turmoil between the European powers, known as the “scramble for Africa.” The main goal of the European powers was to expand their empire, both through land and trade. Rivers were desirable because you could easily explore, travel, and trade along them.
Africa was treated a bit differently than other colonies, because so much of it had not yet been explored. Over time, tension amongst the European nations in Africa grew due to several factors including land scramble, trade dominance, disagreements over ruling, and boundaries.
