What Percentage of Africa Was Colonized by 1913?

The Scramble for Africa⁚ A Period of Rapid Colonization

By 1913, almost all of Africa was colonized, with the percentage of colonized Africa reaching a staggering 97%. This rapid and aggressive period of European imperialism, known as the Scramble for Africa, saw European powers vying for control of the continent's vast resources and strategic locations. The consequences of this colonization would have a lasting impact on the African continent.

The Rise of European Imperialism

The late 19th century witnessed a surge in European imperialism, driven by a confluence of factors. The Second Industrial Revolution fueled a demand for raw materials and new markets, leading European powers to seek expansion beyond their borders. The development of advanced weaponry, such as the Maxim gun, gave European armies a significant advantage over African forces. Furthermore, the ideology of Social Darwinism, which justified European dominance through notions of racial superiority, contributed to the belief that European colonization was a civilizing mission. This combination of economic, technological, and ideological factors set the stage for the rapid colonization of Africa.

The Berlin Conference and its Impact

The Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, convened by Otto von Bismarck of Germany, became a pivotal moment in the Scramble for Africa. It was intended to regulate European colonization and trade in Africa, but ultimately served to legitimize and accelerate the process of partitioning the continent. The conference established rules for claiming territory, including the requirement of effective occupation, and set the stage for a race among European powers to secure their claims. The arbitrary division of Africa, without regard for existing political and cultural boundaries, had a profound and enduring impact, creating artificial borders that would later contribute to conflict and instability.

The Extent of European Control by 1913

By 1913, the Scramble for Africa had reached its peak, with European powers controlling a vast majority of the continent. Only two countries, Ethiopia and Liberia, remained independent. The extent of European control was staggering, encompassing almost 97% of the African landmass. This period witnessed the establishment of vast colonial empires, with Britain, France, Germany, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, and Spain carving up the continent into their respective spheres of influence. The colonial powers imposed their political, economic, and social systems, leaving a lasting mark on the continent's future.

The Legacy of Colonialism

The legacy of colonialism in Africa is a complex and multifaceted one, marked by both positive and negative consequences. On the one hand, colonial rule introduced modern infrastructure, education systems, and healthcare to some parts of the continent. However, it also led to widespread exploitation of resources, suppression of African cultures and traditions, and the imposition of political systems that often favored European interests over those of the indigenous population. The arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers continue to have lasting effects, often contributing to ethnic tensions and political instability.

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