Which of the following accurately compares the economic impacts of the Great Depression in Northern Rhodesia and Burma? (1 point)
Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Burma (now Myanmar) were both affected by the global economic downturn of the Great Depression in the 1930s, but the impacts varied based on their respective economies, colonial statuses, and social structures at the time.
**Northern Rhodesia:**
1. *Economic basis:* Northern Rhodesia's economy was heavily reliant on mining, particularly copper mining, which was an important export.
2. *Impact of Great Depression:* The global economic downturn led to a significant drop in copper prices. This caused severe economic distress as mining revenues fell, leading to widespread unemployment and reductions in public spending.
3. *Colonial administration:* As a British protectorate, Northern Rhodesia's policies and economic health were closely tied to British interests and decisions made by the colonial government.
4. *Social impact:* The economic crisis exacerbated existing social inequalities and worsened conditions for African laborers in the colonies, as demand for labor in mines decreased and wages were often lowered.
**Burma:**
1. *Economic basis:* Burma's economy was largely agricultural, with rice being the primary export.
2. *Impact of Great Depression:* The fall in global rice prices hit Burma's economy hard, leading to reduced incomes for farmers and economic hardship across the country. The country faced a decline in export revenues and a corresponding decrease in the standard of living for many Burmese people.
3. *Colonial administration:* Also under British rule, Burma's economy and administration were influenced by colonial policies, which focused on export-oriented production. The economic crisis led to political instability and growing anti-colonial sentiment.
4. *Social impact:* The reduction in rice prices put a strain on rural communities and resulted in increased rural poverty. Furthermore, the depression heightened ethnic and urban-rural tensions, with some communities suffering more than others.
In summary, the Great Depression negatively affected both Northern Rhodesia and Burma, with the primary economic impacts being felt in the mining sector in Northern Rhodesia and the agricultural sector in Burma. Both regions suffered from declining export prices, which resulted in unemployment, decreased revenues, and widespread social and economic hardships. However, the long-term consequences of this period set the stage for future political changes, including movements for independence from colonial rule.