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The Scramble for Africa
In 1850, European trading with Africa becomes well established. Many nations looked to Africa as a source of raw materials and as a market for industrial products. -
The Suez Canal
In 1875, Britain purchased a controlling interest in the Suez Canal from the bankrupt ruler of Egypt who was
unable to repay loans that he had contracted for the canal and modernization of the country. The Suez
Canal was important because it shortened the route from Europe to South and East Asia. The canal also provided
a lifeline to India, which Britain had made part of the British Empire in 1858. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7Zp1Q7GVGA (http://www.timetoast.com) -
Berlin Conference
In 1884-1885, European nations met at the Berlin Conference to lay down rules for the division of Africa. According to the textbook, "They agreed that any European country could claim land in Africa by noti-fying other nations of its claims and showing it could control the area." -
Boer War
in 1899, the Boer War begins . The Boers launched commando raids and used guerrilla tactics against the British. Black Southern Africans were also involved in the war. Many were captured and placed in concentration camps by the British. Britain finally won the war.
