Theory question 107
Colonial AdministrationIdentify five debilitating effects of French Colonial rule on her West African Colonies.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Any five: destruction of African culture and identity through assimilation; forced labour and harsh native code (indigénat); exploitation of resources and economic dependence on France; centralised authoritarian rule with little African participation; weakening of traditional rulers; continued French control after independence (neo-colonialism, CFA franc, military bases); creation of an elite alienated from the masses; poor infrastructure and education for the majority; conscription of Africans into French wars.
Explanation
Five harmful effects.