Section 2, chapter 7

• What period does the chapter focus on regarding the British Empire in Africa?

  c1890–1914
• What was the political situation in Africa around c.1890?

  There was a revolution in political relations with Africa and emerging nationalist movements.
• What does the term 'incipient revolt' refer to in the context of Africa around c.1890?

  It refers to the early signs of resistance against colonial powers in Africa.
• How was the emerging Africa described in Extract 1?

  It was described as politically undeveloped, barbaric, yet unique with its own internal logic.
• What was the significance of the collapse of governments in Africa according to Extract 1?

  It may have played a part in the introduction of imperial influences.
• What was the British policy in Africa before the 1890s?

  It was largely cautious, focusing on strategic bases and settlements.
• How did the Conservative government elected in 1895 influence British policy in Africa?

  It determined to uphold Britain's position globally, leading to wars and consolidation of the Empire.
• What was the purpose of expanding British protectorates in Africa?

  To provide better security for existing ports, markets, and resources.
• What was the Berlin Conference of 1884–85 about?

  It established rules for European powers to claim African territories through effective occupation.
• What percentage of traditional power in Africa was under European control at the time of the Berlin Conference?

  Only 20 percent.
• By 1914, what proportion of Africa was under European control?

  Two-thirds.
• What were the two countries in Africa that remained independent by 1914?

  Abyssinia (Ethiopia) and Liberia.
• What does Social Darwinism refer to in the context of European colonialism?

  It refers to the belief in a 'naturally' superior European race.
• What was the role of chartered companies in British expansion in Africa?

  They occupied and administered territories on behalf of Britain.
• What were the key reasons for British consolidation and expansion in Africa from 1890 to 1914?

  • Strategic value of territories
  • Protection of existing ports and resources
  • Response to rival European powers
  • Influence of imperial attitudes in Britain
• What was the significance of the Uganda Railway for British colonial interests?

  It connected the coast with the interior and facilitated trade and settlement.
• How long did it take to build the Uganda Railway and what was its cost?

  It took five years and cost £5 million.
• Why was the Uganda Railway referred to as the 'Lunatic Line'?

  Due to the engineering difficulties and challenges faced during construction.
• What were some of the benefits of the Uganda Railway for British colonial interests?

  It enabled access to new markets and increased exports of tea and coffee.
• What was the fate of Mwanga II, the King of Buganda?

  He was captured and exiled to the Seychelles.
• What was the impact of the British actions towards the Ashanti in the Gold Coast?

  It led to the incorporation of Ashanti territories into the British Gold Coast Colony in 1902.
• How did the British justify their expansion in Africa during the late 19th century?

  They believed they had the right to take action using force and coercion.
• What were the challenges faced by the British in maintaining control over their African colonies?

  • Resistance from local populations
  • Logistical difficulties in vast territories
  • Limited resources and manpower
  • Rivalries with other European powers
• What was the purpose of the Uganda Railway?

  To link the respective colonies with each other and the Indian Ocean
• How long did it take to build the Uganda Railway?

  Five years
• How much did the Uganda Railway cost to build?

  £5 million
• What challenges did the labourers face while building the Uganda Railway?

  Accidents, disease, and wildlife
• What were the impacts of the Uganda Railway?

  • Enabled access to new markets
  • Facilitated colonial settlement
  • Increased the export of tea and coffee
  • Opened access for diverse porters to the interior
  • Protected the source of the River Nile against rivals
• Why was the Uganda Railway referred to as the 'Lunatic Line'?

  Due to its engineering impropriety and difficulties encountered during construction
• What was one of the most notorious episodes during the construction of the Uganda Railway?

  Almost 300 labourers were killed by Masai tribesmen
• What was the outcome of the Uganda Railway for Britain's control in East Africa?

  It consolidated Britain's formal takeover of the East Africa Protectorate and Uganda
• When did British interest in Kenya begin?

  At the Berlin Conference of 1884–85
• What was the strategic importance of the territory that became Kenya for the British?

  It offered a route from East Africa to Uganda and the inland territory
• Who was Sheikh Mubarak bin Rashid in relation to the British Protectorate in Kenya?

  He initially tried to force British control but became the Protectorate
• When was Kenya officially declared a British Protectorate?

  In 1920
• What were the key events in the Sudan campaign from 1896 to 1899?

  • 1896: Early action in the Sudan
  • 1896: Kitchener becomes Commander-in-Chief
  • 1897: Successful military campaign in the Sudan
  • 1898: Battle of Omdurman; death of the Mahdi's successor
  • 1899: Agreement between Britain and France; Fashoda Incident
  • 1899: Britain takes control of the Sudan
• Who was General Herbert Kitchener?

  He was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Egyptian Army in 1896
• What was the significance of the Battle of Omdurman in 1898?

  It was a resounding success for Kitchener and his forces
• What was the Fashoda Incident?

  It was a confrontation between British and French forces over territory in the Nile Valley
• What was the outcome of the Fashoda Incident?

  The French backed down in return for territory further west