African American Imperialism Analysis

The attached image depicts the violence in aggressive imperialization by displaying Africans with their hands up, as British soldiers hold them at gunpoint ("Geopolitical Justifications - British Colonization of Africa."). The mere act of pointing a gun at another human being is a symbol of violence in itself, for that weapon has the power to end lives. Viewing this image, as the Africans hold their hands high and stare at the camera in sheer helplessness, one can make no doubts about the horrific violence that imperialism promotes.

The motives of imperialism are typically for personal gain, however the inability for a country to run itself successfully can be grounds for nations to feel the need to conquer; in a sick variation of trying to

In another analysis of this debate between good and bad imperialism, it is claimed that Africa gained a “Technical advance--a significant technical advance in the modern period has been, quite simply, the introduction of new crops to many African regions. Other technical advances have included agricultural techniques, improved transportation and communication, etc. Most modern technical advance seems to have resulted from diffusion to Africa of innovations made elsewhere, rather than from research and development in Africa led, for instance, by colonial governments” (Manning). The European and Western businesses also brought more commerce to Africa, “European firms and governments invested in such enterprises as railroads and ports in Africa. The investment brought wages to workers, and better transport brought better prices to African producers and consumers” (Manning). Not only did imperialist investments bring improved technology, communication, and economics, but they also caused a sense of order unlike that under the rule of corrupt leaders. In the words of Nathaniel Price, “The Belgians and American business brought civilization to the Congo! American aid will be the Congo’s salvation” (Kingsolver); as hated as this character tends to be, he does have a point, as clearly seen in Manning’s assertions. However, many countries face economic ups and downs, and one bad leader does not negate the fact that the atrocities these people faced was grossly