143k views
3 votes
How did the end of the slave trade contribute to the scramble for Africa?

User ACyclic
by
7.8k points

1 Answer

2 votes
The end of the slave trade contributed to the Scramble for Africa in several ways.

Firstly, European powers, particularly Britain, had previously relied heavily on the slave trade as a source of labor for their colonies in the Americas. With the abolition of the slave trade, these colonial powers began to look for alternative sources of labor to support their growing empires. This led to an increased interest in Africa, which was seen as a potential source of raw materials and labor.

Secondly, the end of the slave trade led to the growth of legitimate trade in Africa, particularly in the form of palm oil, rubber, and other commodities. European powers began to compete for access to these resources, which led to an increased interest in establishing colonies and spheres of influence in Africa.

Finally, the end of the slave trade coincided with a period of technological advancements in Europe, particularly in the areas of transportation and communication. This made it easier for European powers to establish and maintain colonies in Africa, which contributed to the Scramble for Africa.

Overall, the end of the slave trade played a significant role in shaping the Scramble for Africa and the subsequent colonization of the continent by European powers.
User Beiller
by
8.1k points

No related questions found