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What were the main social and economic effects on Africa of European retreat from Empire, 1945-1990? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2014
Question 1
What were the main social and economic effects on Africa of European retreat from Empire, 1945-1990?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What were the main social and economic effects on Africa of European retreat from Empire, 1945-1990? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2014
Step 1
Social Effects on Africa
Answer
The retreat from empire led to significant social changes across Africa. With the departure of European powers, newly independent nations faced challenges in establishing coherent national identities. This often resulted in ethnic tensions as colonial borders rarely reflected the realities of diverse ethnic groups. The breakdown of colonial administrative structures also led to a power vacuum, causing civil conflicts in several regions. Furthermore, educational systems that were primarily geared towards serving colonial interests had to adapt to the new political landscape, which sometimes meant a lack of qualified personnel and resources.
Step 2
Economic Effects on Africa
Answer
Economically, the retreat from empire resulted in disruptions in trade patterns that had been firmly established during colonial times. African economies were often left vulnerable; the reliance on former colonial powers for trade created instability. Additionally, the extraction of resources was sometimes pursued aggressively by both foreign and local elites, leading to economic inequalities. Post-independence, many African nations focused on nation-building, which often diverted resources from crucial development projects.