Context

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked one of the most intense periods of imperial expansion in world history, characterized mainly by the partition of Africa among European powers. This phase, also known as the New Imperialism, had significant implications for the African continent that can still be felt today.

The importance of studying imperialism in Africa is manifold. First, it provides essential context for understanding the contemporary geopolitics of the continent. Second, imperialism and colonialism forged intricate international relations that continue to shape the global configuration as we know it. Discussions on the topic also address deep ethical and moral questions, such as human rights, racism, exploitation, and neocolonialism.

Introduction

In the period between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several European countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, established colonies in vast areas of Africa. This process of expansion is known as the "Scramble for Africa." These nations were interested in the natural resources of the African continent and sought power and prestige through territorial expansion.

In this project, students will be introduced to topics such as the European ethnocentrism that underpinned the belief that African nations "needed" European intervention to progress, African resistance to colonialism, and the long-term consequences of imperialism. The goal is for students to not only understand the past, but also to be equipped to draw connections to contemporary issues by contextualizing the legacy of imperialism in Africa.

Hands-on Activity

Activity Title: Imperialism in Africa - A Board Game

Project Goal

This project aims to lead students toward a deep understanding and exploration of the concepts and history of imperialism in Africa, as well as its consequences and impact. It will be a dynamic process that requires extensive research, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and creativity. The final task is the creation of an educational board game that presents African imperialism.

Project Description

Student groups of 3 to 5 will be responsible for creating a board game that addresses the theme of Imperialism in Africa. The game should be playable, educational, and engaging, exploring aspects such as African geography, the colonial powers involved, natural resources at stake, African resistance to colonialism, and the long-term consequences of imperialism.

The game should be divided into phases, each representing a different aspect of imperialism in Africa, such as the partition of Africa, colonial rule, African resistance, and decolonization. The rules of the game, dynamics, and objectives should be clearly defined.

Materials Required

1. Cardboard or similar material for the game board base.
2. Colored paper, markers, and crayons to create the game board and pieces.
3. Dice or spinner for controlling movement in the game.
4. Computer and internet access for research.

Activity Procedure

1. Task Division: The group should divide into tasks for information gathering, designing, and developing the game rules.
2. Research: Students should first conduct research on imperialism in Africa, addressing subtopics of the partition of Africa, colonial rule, African resistance, and decolonization.
3. Design and Development: After research, students should begin working on the game board design and rules.
4. Prototyping and Revision: Students should assemble a prototype of the game and revise the rules and board appearance together.
5. Finalization: After revisions, students will finalize their board game.

Project Deliverables

Students are to submit the board game and a written report. The report should be divided into four main parts: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and References.

1. Introduction: Should contextualize imperialism in Africa, its relevance and real-world application, as well as the purpose of the board game project.
2. Development: Should explain the theory behind the project's central theme - imperialism in Africa -, present details about the activity (including the game design and development process), the methodology used for research and development, and discuss the results and feedback received.
3. Conclusion: Restates the main points, makes explicit what was learned, and draws conclusions about the project.
4. References: Indicates the sources used for research and project development.

The report should be written in a way that complements the board game, explaining the decisions made during game development and how they help explain or illustrate aspects of imperialism in Africa.