Why was Africa colonised in the years 1870-1914?

Introduction

Before 1870 the African continent was not "unknown" to the rest of the world. Africans had been trading directly with the Europeans and Americans before 1500. The possible reasons behind colonialism that have been suggested include missionary, technology, and Imperial rivalry.

It is important to try to distinguish between the difference in the term's colonialism and imperialism. They have often been exchanged such that they follow the same meaning. However the English Oxford dictionary definition implies that colonialism is a method of "establishing colonies" while imperialism is defined as a policy or practice of extending a states rule over other territories.


"To remain a great nation or to become one, you must colonise" French statesman Leon Gambetta (Joll 1990, p.81)

The interest in Africa had begun long before 1870. The British had a key interest in Egypt while the French had occupied Algeria since the Early 1830's. However regardless of the fact th...