Consolidation and Expansion in Africa Flashcards
(10 cards)
What major conflict confirmed British dominance in South Africa?
The Second Boer War (1899-1902)
Evidence: Cost Britain over £200 million and involved 450,000 British troops to defeat around 88,000 Boers.
Who were the key British figures driving African imperial expansion?
Joesph Chamberlain, Cecil Rhodes and Alfred Milner.
Evidence: Milner’s aggressive policy in South Africa helped trigger the Boer War.
What was the Jameson Raid (1895) and its outcome?
A failed attempt by British forces to incite an uprising in the Transvaal; it damaged British credibility.
Evidence: Jameson’s 600 men surrendered after 4 days; it embarrassed Britain and strengthened Boer nationalism.
What were the economic motivations for the expansion into Africa?
Access to gold and diamonds, expansion of markets, and securing trade routes.
Evidence: South Africa accounted for over 40% of global gold production by 1914.
What role did infrastructure play in consolidating British control?
raliways and telegraph lines helped secure movement of troops and materials
Evidence: Cape to Cairo Railway project symbolised British imperial ambition.
What was the outcome of the Boer War for the Empire?
It led to the creation of the Union of South Africa in 1910, a self-governing dominion.
Evidence: White minority rule established; black majority excluded from franchise.
How did Britain justify its actions in Africa?
Through civilising rhetoric, white supremacy and economic development claims.
Evidence: Chamberlain described imperialism as a “duty” to bring civilisation.
What did the Fashoda Incident (1898) show about imperial rivalry?
Anglo-French tensions over Africa; resolved diplomatically but revealed high stakes
Evidence: Almost caused war but resolved peacefully with the Entente Cordiale (1904).
What was the significance of Cecil Rhodes?
Vision of “Cape to Cairo” empire and control of Southern Africa.
Evidence: Founded Rhodesia (1895); made fortune from De Beers diamond monopoly.
How was African resistance managed by Britain?
Brutal suppression of revolts, treaties and indirect rule.
Evidence: Scorched earth tactics and concentration camps during Boer War led to 26,000 civilian deaths.
