Theory question 106
NationalismSection B (answer four questions in all, two from each section)
Why was the development of nationalist activities slow in the French West African colonies?
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Assimilation: educated Africans were treated as French citizens and identified with France
Representation of Africans in the French parliament gave the elite a stake in the French system
Direct rule and harsh laws (indigénat, forced labour) suppressed political activity
Restrictions on press freedom and political organisation
Limited Western education for the majority
Centralised federation (AOF) run from Dakar and Paris
Many elites preferred association with France (e.g. Senghor's federal ideas)
Promises of reform (Brazzaville 1944, Loi Cadre 1956) reduced pressure
Compare with British West Africa where helpful.