An In-depth Exploration of Colonial Era and Its Impact on Africa

Colonialism has left an indelible mark on the historical landscape and cultural fabric of many regions, particularly Africa. This period—from the establishment of colonies until their eventual decolonization—shaped the modern world in profound ways. This article delves into the specifics of the colonial era in Africa, providing a comprehensive overview of this pivotal historical period.

Definition and Duration of Colonial Era in Africa

The colonial era in a given region lasts from the time it begins to be a colony until it gains independence. For instance, Canada’s colonial era started in 1608 with the establishment of La Nouvelle France by Samuel de Champlain and ended in 1867 with the country’s confederation. Similarly, in the case of Africa, the colonial period began in the 17th century and continued through the late 20th century. Many African countries experienced colonial rule during the 1700s and 1800s.

Architectural Legacy of the Colonial Period

The colonial era also left its mark on the built environment, particularly in urban centers. Architecture from this period reflects the tastes and influence of colonial powers. For example, buildings constructed in the 1840s, such as the Montgomery’s Inn in Toronto, ON, showcase elements of European design and structure, reflecting the colonial influence.

The Truth Behind African History and Colonialism

It is widely recognized that Africa’s history is much more extensive and complex than what is often taught. Here are some key points that challenge the commonly held narratives:

Pre-colonial Autonomy: The vast majority of African ancestors had never encountered Europeans until the late 1870s. For centuries, Europeans were restricted to coastal areas and were unable to penetrate inland, where they frequently faced military defeats or succumbed to diseases. Continued Military Defeats: Even in the late 19th century, African armies continued to defeat European forces. Notably, the Zulu defeated the British in 1879, and the Ethiopians beat the Italians in 1896. The introduction of the Maxim Gun, a rapid-fire machine gun, changed the dynamics of warfare, allowing Europeans to conquer Africa more efficiently. Extensive Recorded History: Africa boasts a recorded history of at least 100,000 years. The Great Lakes region of East-Central Equatorial Africa, known for Kitara, one of the earliest recorded empires, predates Kemet (ancient Egypt) and Kush. Archeological evidence supports the existence of this civilization. Racist Representations: The racist portrayal of Africa in media and education was designed to rewrite history and obscure the contributions and achievements of African civilizations. Africa is home to two cradles of civilization: Kemet (ancient Egypt) and Kush, and has the longest list of firsts, including the first city, university, and world wonder. Current Map of Africa: The current map of Africa may be considered truncated, as Western Europe was once named Africa, and was settled and ruled by African kings and princesses. There is evidence of black Scots and Irish among the migrants to America and the Caribbean Islands. White Slavery: Whites were enslaved in Africa under different names and by different slave masters. Extensive Eurasian maternal ancestry can be traced back to the Amazigh Berbers, and the origins of some white women as breeding partners of African men are also documented. Imperial Africa: Pre-colonial Africa was characterized by numerous empires and kingdoms. Examples include Kongo with embassies in Europe, the Golden Bantu-Shona Empire with Sofala as its main seaport, and the Swahili Sultanate of Kilwa. Pax Colonica: The concept of a Pax Coloniaca (Pax Britannica) has been falsified, as many African kings and queens defeated European armies. Revolts and insurrections during colonial times, as well as religious and military resistance, were often suppressed. Coloniality of Power: While the direct control of European powers may have ended, the legacy of colonialism persists in the form of military bases and puppet governments. Financial dependencies and cultural heritage theft continue to affect modern African nations.

Conclusion

The colonial era was a transformative period in African history, leaving lasting impacts on governance, culture, and identity. Understanding the complexities and nuances of this era is crucial for a more accurate and nuanced interpretation of Africa’s past and present.