Image of a political map of Africa. Europe is also shown north of the continent of Africa.

Source: Africa, Central Intelligence Agency

This lesson will give a brief history of colonization in Africa and then present a problem that has resulted from that colonization. The goal of the lesson is for you to understand how European colonization of Africa has led to its current economic, political and social state.

Click on the link below to access a brief history of what has been called The Scramble for Africa. This article deals with the reasoning behind the colonization by European Countries. Then explore the impact of this colonization.

Slavery and the 'Scramble for Africa'

Disclaimer: Many times, you will see varied spellings when reading British text. Do not allow it to confuse you. The meaning is typically the same.

Answer the questions (true/false) below after reading the article:

Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required.

The map below shows how the scramble for the colonization of Africa looked at the height of European colonization from 1885-1914:

Image of a map of Africa, titled 'Partition of Africa'. The countries are color coded by the colonial powers: British, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Belgian, Spanish, and Independent.

Source: Partition of Africa, 1885-1914, Bronx Community College

Which European country(ies) colonized most of Africa?

Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

Check Your Answer

Great Britain and FranceClose Pop Up