Why Egypt and Niger basin was a centre of scramble for and partition of Africa
The scramble for and partition of Africa in the late 19th century was driven by several factors including economic interests, competition between European powers, and the desire for strategic control over key regions. Egypt and the Niger basin were seen as important areas for these reasons:
1. Economic Interests: Egypt was crucial due to its proximity to the Suez Canal, which had opened in 1869. The canal provided a direct route to the lucrative markets of India and Southeast Asia for European powers. Controlling Egypt meant controlling this vital trade route, making it a highly sought-after region.
2. Access to the Nile: The Nile River flows through Egypt and is crucial for agricultural activities. It provides fertile land and a reliable water source, making Egypt an attractive area for colonization. Additionally, controlling Egypt meant gaining influence over the sources and tributaries of the Nile flowing from further south.
3. Niger River and Trade Routes: The Niger basin, located in present-day Niger and Mali, was strategically important due to its river system. The Niger River provided access to the interior of West Africa, which was rich in resources such as gold, ivory, and slaves. European powers sought to establish control over the Niger River and its trade routes to exploit these resources.
4. Competition between European Powers: The scramble for Africa was driven by intense rivalry between European powers, mainly Britain, France, Germany, and Italy. Each sought to expand their colonial territories and protect their national interests. Egypt and the Niger basin represented critical regions that could strengthen each power's colonial dominance and undermine their rivals.
Overall, the scramble for and partition of Africa were the consequences of the search for economic resources, strategic control, and geopolitical competition between European powers. Egypt and the Niger basin were key areas in the continent that held immense economic and strategic importance, making them the center of this colonial competition.