Using the documents, analyze African actions and reactions in response to the European Scramble for Africa. DBQ HELP NEED a Thesis or example
These sites should help you.
http://home.earthlink.net/~gfeldmeth/DBQ.html
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/545/01/
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Thesis: Throughout the European Scramble for Africa, African nations demonstrated a range of actions and reactions that included resistance movements, attempts at diplomatic negotiation, and the formation of regional alliances.
Example 1: Resistance Movements
One key response by African nations to the European Scramble for Africa was the establishment of resistance movements to protect their territories and sovereignty. The Zulu Kingdom, under the leadership of Shaka Zulu, resisted British encroachment in southern Africa through a series of military campaigns. Similarly, in West Africa, the Asante Kingdom launched several wars against British forces to defend its territories and control over gold resources. These resistance movements highlighted African efforts to defend their independence and push back against European colonization.
Example 2: Diplomatic Negotiation
In response to European pressures for territorial acquisition, some African leaders attempted diplomatic negotiations to protect their interests. The case of King Leopold II's exploitation of the Congo Free State is instructive in this regard. As European powers attempted to partition Africa, the Congolese leader, King Leopold II, entered into diplomatic negotiations with various European countries to secure recognition for his personal control over the Congo. This example reveals an African response that involved engaging European powers in diplomatic negotiations to safeguard their territories and maintain a measure of autonomy.
Example 3: Regional Alliances
Another reaction by African nations to the European Scramble for Africa was the formation of regional alliances and cooperation to resist European colonization. The Sudanese leader, Muhammad Ahmad al-Mahdi, for instance, rallied various Sudanese tribes and established a Mahdist state to resist British expansion into Sudan. Additionally, in West Africa, the Asante Kingdom sought support from neighboring African states to form a coalition against British forces. These regional alliances aimed to consolidate strength and foster solidarity among African nations in their efforts to resist European colonization.
In conclusion, African actions and reactions to the European Scramble for Africa involved a combination of resistance movements, diplomatic negotiations, and the formation of regional alliances. These responses underscored the agency and determination of African nations to protect their territories, independence, and cultural identities in the face of European imperialism.
To develop a thesis statement or an example of African actions and reactions in response to the European Scramble for Africa, you can follow these steps:
1. Read and understand the documents provided in the DBQ (Document-Based Question) prompt. These documents may include primary sources such as letters, speeches, treaties, maps, or secondary sources like historical analysis, essays, or scholarly articles.
2. Identify major themes and patterns in the documents related to African actions and reactions. Look for information on how various African societies responded to European colonization, whether through diplomatic efforts, armed resistance, economic strategies, or cultural preservation.
3. Group the documents based on similar themes or viewpoints. This will help you see the different angles and perspectives that you can incorporate into your analysis.
4. Formulate a thesis statement that reflects your understanding of African actions and reactions. Your thesis should address the prompts of the DBQ and offer a concise argument that you will support with evidence from the documents. For example:
"During the European Scramble for Africa, African societies showcased a range of responses, including armed resistance, diplomatic negotiations, and political alliances, in an effort to protect their sovereignty and cultural autonomy."
5. Find specific examples or evidence from the documents to support your thesis statement. Use direct quotes or references from the documents to back up your claims. For instance:
"In Document 3, King Menelik II of Ethiopia successfully resisted Italian colonial conquest by mobilizing his army and utilizing modern weaponry acquired through diplomatic contacts with other European powers. This exemplifies how armed resistance was employed by African societies to thwart European colonization."
Remember, this is just an example, and your actual thesis and examples should be based on the specific information provided in the documents. Be sure to analyze the documents in detail, consider multiple perspectives, and support your arguments with evidence, reasoning, and synthesis of the material.