Photo AI
Colonialism Examine the impact of colonialism on a developing economy that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 7B - 2019
Question 7B
Colonialism Examine the impact of colonialism on a developing economy that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Colonialism Examine the impact of colonialism on a developing economy that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 7B - 2019
Step 1
Identify the impact of colonialism
Answer
One of the significant impacts of colonialism on a developing economy, such as India, is the disruption of local industries. Colonial powers often replaced indigenous manufacturing with their own goods, leading to structural changes in the economy.
Step 3
Examine the first impact identified
Answer
The disruption of local industries resulted in a decline of traditional crafts and industries. This shift caused loss of livelihoods for artisans and small-scale producers, leading to increased poverty among local populations. The economic policies favoring colonial interests further hindered the ability of the local economy to recover, as resources were extracted and profits repatriated instead of being reinvested into local development.
Step 4
Examine an additional impact of colonialism
Answer
Another impact is the introduction of cash crops, which altered agricultural practices. Colonial authorities promoted crops like cotton and indigo for export, reducing self-sufficiency in food production. This shift not only led to frequent famines but also made the economy overly reliant on volatile global markets, which had lasting repercussions even post-independence.