Berlin Conference 1884 - 85
Berlin, 1884 - 1885
Lets make rules about how to prevent direct conflict between European nations in Africa!
30
s
Items in this lesson
Berlin, 1884 - 1885
Lets make rules about how to prevent direct conflict between European nations in Africa!
30
s
spin the spinner
Paper 2: International History, 1870 – 1939
KQ1 Imperialism and the emergence of world powers
Learning Objective (LO)
What was agreed at the Berlin Conference, 1884 – 1885 (p. 23 – 24)
TASK 1: Berlin, 1884 - 1885
Each of you represents a nation:
Britain
France
Germany
Belgium
Portugal
REVIEW :
Your Great Power status
What you already have in Africa
What you want in Africa
Which nations might stop you
TASK 2:
You are meeting to establish the ´rules´ of how to divide up Africa.
Agree (or compromise) on 3 key rules as to how Africa should divided.
You must represent your country – try to get the best possible outcome while avoiding conflict!
How accurate were your predictions?
TASK 2: Make notes on Treaty of Berlin, p.23 – 34
TERMS
RESULTS
The Treaty of Berlin - 1885
TERMS
Free Passage on Congo and Niger rivers
Slavery abolished
inform other nations and demonstrate ´effective occupation´
Disputes should be settled by negotiation and not war
a rule requiring notification of claims to new territories to other powers
formalization of "spheres of influence" for European colonial powers
RESULTS
Encouraged imperialism as nations rushed to ´occupy territory´
Avoided arms conflict
BUT tensions remained
E.g. Germany wanted territories in Africa
E.g. Japan in Asia threatened USA + Europe
Why was imperialism a significant force for late 19th century Europe?
Economic motives – New colonies provided raw materials (rubber, cotton, minerals) and new markets for European manufactured goods.
Industrial revolution – Rapid industrial growth created a hunger for resources and overseas investment opportunities.
National prestige – Empire became a badge of power; nations like Germany and Italy wanted colonies to rival Britain and France.
Strategic concerns – Control of territories (e.g., the Suez Canal) was vital for trade routes and naval dominance.
Military expansion – Colonies gave bases for navies and armies, securing global reach.
Social Darwinism and racism – Ideas of European superiority justified domination and control over non-European peoples.
Missionary zeal – A belief in spreading Christianity and "civilization" reinforced imperial expansion.
Domestic politics – Leaders used imperial adventures to distract from social problems at home and build unity.
The "Scramble for Africa" – Competitive land grabs created momentum for further expansion to avoid being left behind.
Balance of power – Empire was tied to great power status; having colonies meant influence in international politics.
Scientific curiosity and exploration – Exploration opened new territories and fed imperial ambitions.
Economic rivalries within Europe – Nations sought colonies to prevent dependence on rivals and ensure self-sufficiency.
