The Scramble for Africa: The Conquest and Division of a Continen...
The Scramble for Africa: The Conquest and Division of a Continent The Partition of Africa refers to the period during the late 19th century when European powers, primarily from Western Europe, divided and colonized the African continent. This process is often referred to as the " Scramble for Africa " or the "Conquest of Africa." During this time, Africa was largely divided into independent and diverse ethnic groups, kingdoms, and empires. However, advancements in technology, such as steamships and the Maxim gun (a rapid-firing machine gun), enabled European powers to exert their influence and control over vast territories. The Scramble for Africa began in the 1880s and lasted until the early 20th century. European powers, including Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Italy, and Spain, sought to establish colonies and exploit the vast resources and potential markets that Africa offered. The partitioning process involved diplomatic negotiations, as well as ...