Theory question 106
Colonial AdministrationSection B: Political and Constitutional Developments in West Africa and International Relations
In what ways did colonial rule contribute to the decline of the powers of the traditional rulers in West Africa.
Show the model answer
Colonial officials became the real rulers; chiefs became mere agents of the colonial government.
Chiefs could be appointed, deposed or exiled by colonial authorities, so loyalty shifted to the colonial power.
Colonial courts took over judicial powers of chiefs.
Legislative councils and colonial laws replaced chiefs' law-making.
Colonial treasuries and taxes removed chiefs' control of revenue.
Western education produced an elite who looked down on traditional authority.
Christianity and Islam weakened chiefs' spiritual/religious role.
Wage employment and new trade gave subjects economic independence.
The French policy of assimilation and direct rule reduced chiefs to clerks.
Forced labour and tax collection made chiefs unpopular.
Explain each way.