Colonialism (i) Name one developing economy which has been colonised and name the country that colonised it - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 9C - 2019

Colonialism has had several profound effects on the economy of Nigeria. Firstly, it led to the establishment of an economy primarily focused on the extraction of natural resources, particularly oil and agricultural products.

Economic Dependence

This focus created a dependence on external markets, making Nigeria vulnerable to fluctuations in global prices for these commodities.

Infrastructure Development

However, colonialism also resulted in some development of infrastructure, such as roads and railways, primarily built to facilitate resource extraction. While these have provided a foundation for future economic development, they were not designed to foster local economic growth.

Social and Cultural Disruption

Colonial rule disrupted traditional economic practices and social structures, leading to a loss of local industries and handicrafts. Many local artisans were unable to compete with imported goods, which diminished local employment opportunities.

Political Instability

In the long term, the arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers have contributed to ethnic tensions and political instability, which continue to affect economic development today. This instability often discourages foreign investment, which is crucial for economic growth.

In conclusion, while colonialism laid some groundwork for modern infrastructure, it primarily created an economic environment dependent on foreign markets and contributed to long-lasting social and political challenges.