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European trade with Africa becomes well established
In 1850, the Europeans established a much more profitable trade with Africans. This was made possible primarily because new inventions such as the steam boat and antibiotics agaist malaria made it possible to penetrate the continents exterior. The Europeans were now able to take advantage of Africa's abundant exterior. -
East India Company collapses due to Sepoy Rebellion; British Raj begins
During the year-long Sepoy Mutiny, British and Indian solidiers fought horribly bloody battles. After Britain regained control of India, the British government took a more direct approach in governing the "jewel of the crown". -
Suez Canal links the Mediterranean and Red Seas
The Suez Canal, or the "Lifeline of the Empire", was so important becuase it allowed much easier access to Africa and Asia for Europe. -
Berlin Conference convenes to discuss terms for African colonization
The Berlin Conference was a conference between all European countires who wanted to colonize Africa. During this conference, borders were made throughout the continent saying which countries could colonize which areas without any regard to Afican tribes already in the area. -
Queen Liliuokalani takes the throne of Hawaii
When she took the throne, Queen Liliuokalani called for a new constitution that would give her more power. However, American business men did not like this idea so they managed to get the Queen removed from power later that year. -
Ethiopians defeat the invading Italians at the Battle of Adwa
In one of the greatest battles in African history, Menelik II put his forces up against the Italian forces in northern Ethiopia and came out victorious. -
Spanish-American War breaks out; Puerto Rico, Spain, and the Philippines taken from Spain
This war waged between the Spanish and Americans was ended on December 10, 1898 after the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Unfortunately for the Spanish, as a consequence, they lost all of their remains of their empire including the Phillippines, Puerto Rico, and Cuba among others. -
Boer War in South Africa
The Boer War brokeout in South Africa between the Boers and the British. During this war, both sides implemented many new, modern war tactics such as guerrilla tactics (from the Boers) and concentration camps (to counter the Boer's tactics by the British). -
Most of Africa is under European control
Unfortunately, most of the rebellions in Africa were unsuccessful and were ultimately failures against European invaders. So, by 1914, most of Africa was under European control and borders were made with no regard to where tribes lived which as a result led to dozens of horrible effects.
