HISTORY FORM 4: TOPIC 2 - NATIONALISM AND DECOLONISATION IN AFRICA

AFRICAN NATIONALISM AND DECOLONIZATION

What is nationalism?

Nationalism: is the situation whereby people develop strong desire and national consciousness to have self rule and out from foreign domination.

African nationalism: Was the desire of African people to have self rule and out from colonial administration. Basically nationalism is the politically will of the people of Africa in apposition of colonial domination and establishing their self rule. However in another sense nationalism, refers to a desire of African people to terminate all foreign rules and live under a government of their own choice so as to preserve their political, economic and social interest.

PHASES OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

African nationalism are categorised in to two phases such as follows:-

1. African nationalism Before the second world war 1945: This was the ealrly phase of African nationalism which was manifested itself since the period of colonial penetration. However the nationalism on this sense was not related directly to political goal rather than protecting national sovereignty. It was the time when African reacted actively agains colonial penwtration and occcupation/imposition of colonial rule.

The main aim of the Africans at this stage was to have reforms in colonialism such as end economic exploitation through land alienation, taxation, forced labour, long working hours and low wages. Example of this phase was evidenced by existence of different African resistance like Majimaji war in Tanganyika, Chimurenga war in Zimbabwe, and Namba and Herero in Namibia just to mention some few.

2. African nationalism after the second world war in 1945: The rise of Africa nationalism at this stage was stimulated by much by returning by ex-sodiers, impact of colonial exploitation and and the role of colonial education.

FACTORS FOR THE RISE AND AND DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

African nationalism was stimulated by so many number of factors but normally those factors were categorized in to internal (domestic) factors and external (international) factors.

A. INTERNAL/DOMESTIC FACTORS

 

The internal factors: Are those factors that originated within the african continent, and normally those include:-

1. Economic factors: under this context African were tired with economic exploitation of their resource made by colonialists through various ways such as, land alienation, taxation, forced labour, payment of low wages, long working hours and low prices of African commodities/raw matAfrican. Hence African united to remove economic grievances.

2. Social factors: African totally they dehumiliates by colonialists through racial segregation, lack of freedom to practice their culture, poor provision of social services such as, education, housing services, and so on. Hence lead to the rise of African nationalism.

3. Political factors: Generally African lacked the democracy hence fought for freedom of movement, freedom of expression, right to own the properties of production such as land, right to vote and being voted.

4. The role played by African elites: These elites were the product of the colonial education. African elites class played a great role towards the African nationalism through educating their fellows Africans know the importance of self rule and mobilizing unity. Example of African elites were such as J.K. Nyerere of Tanganyika, Jomo kenyata of Kenya, Kamuzu Banda of Malawi, Nnandi Azikiwe of Nigeria, Kwame Nkurumah of Ghana, Nelson Madiba Mandera of S. Africa, Milton Obote of Uganda etc.

5. The impact of Italo-Ethiopian war in 1935-1939: after the success of Ethiopian to remove Italian domination it has led to the rise of consciousness and awereness to other Africans that even them they can able to remove colonialism hence the rise of nationalism.

6. The role played by welfare association and independent church movement: African they decided to build their own independed churches and formation of different social welfare association so as to avoid interference and capitalis exploitation. However these welfare associations and independent churches contributed to the rise of awereness and consciouness, formation of political parties such as TANU in Tanganyika, it also educated African to know their right in the world, hence led to the rise of African nationalism. 

Example of welfare association is T.T.C.S.A. Example of peasant cooperative unions were:- Kilimanjaro Native planter Association KNC). The Bataka Association -Uganda and The Bukoba Cooperative Union. The peasants produced products which they sold to the colonial government, but they received low prices for their products yet the white settlers were given higher producer, prices. This prompted them to fight for independence.

 

7. The role played by ex soldiers: These were war returners that broght new tectneque of fighting from the second world war, they educated their fellow Africans, they brought awereness and conscioness hence the rise of African nationalism. 

The ex soldiers from WWI and WWII contributed to the rise of nationalism. These promises were promised employment and good life and return. -The promises were not Fulfilled from there, these soldiers started to question the colonial government. These soldiers came with new ideas and technique for fighting one of the ideas used that “white man can be defeated” Example: Dedan Kimath during Maumau was in kenya 1952, the soldiers were abandoned false idea, that white man can not be defeated”. the experience in the war seen white man dying and other running away. This gave them hope that it was possible to fight the white man as Samora Masheli once said “in sawing the seen evolution and whenever a peacefully means fail, violence is inevitable. -This was also applied by Frantz Fanon when advised Africans to use violence as means of maintain Independence and history.

B. EXTERNAL/INTERNATIONAL FACTORS

These were the waves or forces that were motivated from the out side Africa, those were:-

1. The impacts of the second world war: It has facilitated the decolonization processes in the colonies through, massive returning by ex-soldiers who come with new knowledge to mobilize their fellow Africans. Moreover the second world war has led to the increase in exploitation of Africa resouces, and also the second world war has led to the decline of European imperialism this circumstances has made the capitalist to be powerles in supervising their colonies hence lead to the rise of nationalism.

2. The role of the United Nations (UN) in 1945: It has contributed to the development of African natiinalism through fighting for human rights and pressurized colonial powers to grant independence to African, hence this has led to the rise of African nationalism. 

The end of WWII was led to the formation of the international organization like united Nations which was against all forms of exploitation and colonialism in different part of the world, this organs was played the great role in the independence struggle in different parts of Africa because this body helped different colony to regain back their independence and demise colonialism in different parts of Africa because it was the distructive and distance for the development in Africa. A part from that UNO has ordered some colonial powers to prepare the territory to the independent. Example British was given Tanganyika and ordered to prepare the territory until it become capable to be Independent. 

The United Nations Organization was formed in 1945 with the main objective of maintaining peace in the world. The UN formed the Trusteeship council which had to make sure that all colonies regain their independence by using peaceful means. Tanganyika is one of the countries that benefited from the United Nations because it was trusteeship territory.

3. The role played by Unites soviet socialist republic (U.S.S.R) 1945: The second world war (WWII) ended with the rise of socialist, USSR was making a step towards Industrial development hence demanded areas for the economic motives like areas for raw material, market and capital investment. This need made USSR to support decolonization process. Normally after the second world war USSR rose as the new world super power hence supported decolonization in the colonies through moral and material support to the African colonies by means of socialist ideology. However USSR provided scholarship to African leaders, spreading and provision of military assistances to African freedom fighters.

4. The role of Unites state of America (U.S.A) 1945: After the second world war USA become the new capitalist world super power who come with ideology of spreading capitalist ideology throughout the world, therefore the USA pressurized decolonization processes in the colonies throgh providing moral and material support by means of capitalist ideology. 

This means that Africans were advised to use peaceful means or armed struggle if is necessary. Hence the rise of African nationalism. The end of WWII, marked the rise of new power.

USA took the part of Britain USA had no colonies in Africa and From there it needed areas for getting raw materials, markets and areas for investment to get their colonies she had to encourage the so called “open door policy”. She encourage other European countries to grant independence for their colonies. Much more USA adapted capitalism Ideology to ensure such Ideology spread through the world, she decided to support nationalism/decolonization movement as the best way to make expansionism and spread the idea of the capitalism.

5. The influence of independence of Asian countries: The independence of Asian countries like Burma 1947, indonesia 1948, parkistan 1949 has played greater role to the rise of African nationalism through encouraging unity among African, awereness and consciouness and provions of moral and material supports.

6. The influence of Pan- Africanism 1945: This movement was formed in the United States of America by the Black people in Diaspora. The main goal of the movement was to fight for the abolition of slave trade and slavery, but after the abolition of slave trade it turned into a liberation movement whereby it advocated for nationalism. The movement argued that, “Africa was Africans” After the independence of Ghana in 1957, that Pan Africanism movement shifted its headquarters to Accra where it spear headed the independence of many African countries. The movement supported much human rights, formation of mass political parties, formation of regional intergration such as O.A.U, it eradicated all forms colonialism, it demanded much education.

 

7. The role played by Bandung conference in 1955: The conference held at Bandung, Indonesia aim at discussing matters related to African nationalism. However the conference attended by many african leaders and representatives. The conference pressurized decolonization through supporting human rights, formation of massive political parties and moreover encouraging unity.

A. THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND THE STRUGGLE FOR AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The Second World War: was the imperialistic war fought among the imperialist nations over the reasons escalated by the development of capitalism especially when it was reached its highest stage (Imperialism). The war was fought between Allied powers (Britain, France, Russia supported by USA) against Axis powers (Germany, Italy and Japan) against.

The war ended by defeat of Germany and his members of Axis powers in 1945 whre the Victorians (Britain, France, Russian and USA) meet at Potsdam Germany to discuss the situation of world peace. Therefore, the Potsdam conference has led to the division Germany in two parts which were Western part which was put to USA under capitalist ideology and Eastern part which was put to USSR under socialist ideology, all these were made because Germany was regarded as the war initiator.

CONTRIBUTIONS/ SIGNIFICANCES OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR (WWII) TO THE RISE AND DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The Second World War played a great role in the rise of African nationalism by doing the following

1. It contributed to the formation of United Nation (UN): The UNO was formed in 1945 with the main objective of maintaining peace in the world. The UN formed the trusteeship council which had to make sure all colonies gain their independence by using peaceful means. Tanganyika is one of the countries that benefited from UN because it was a trusteeship territory.

2. It has led to the emergence of new super powers: After the World War II, USA and USSR were emerged as a new leading economic and military suoer powers in the wolrd. These super powers supported decolonization processes in the colonies through providing moral and material support in the colonies. USA introduced the open door policy for the needed raw materials, markets and areas for investment from overseas. USSR was supported much African decolonization for the aim of spreading socialist ideology.

3. It has led to the decline of European imperialism: The second world war broght several negative impact to some colonial powers in Europe like Britain, France, Germany and Italy by weakned and make the decline of European powers through destruction of properties (infrastructures, building, and industries), loss of people's life, decline of international trade as well as the war left most European countries with debt crisis to USA. However this has made USA to use Marshal plan technique to have strong involvement to European affairs hence the USA use the open door police to have access to colonial empires by pressurizing the colonial powers to leave the colonies freely hence the rise of African nationalism.

4. It has increased colonial exploitation: The colonial powers had intensified exploitation of African resources through payment of low wages, long working hours, land alienation, due to quickly need to revival their lost economy among the imperialism powers. Therefore through this African decided to unite together and fight for independence to African resources.

5. It has led to the of consolidation of pan Africanism in 1945: The second world war has contributed to the expansion pan Afrinism movement especially after the Manchester conference in 1945. The movement formally was in the United States of America by the Black people in Diaspora. The movement argued that, “Africa was Africans” After the independence of Ghana in 1957, that Pan Africanism movement shifted its headquarters to Accra where it spear headed the independence of many African countries. However the pan Africanism has many success towards the struggle for independence among the African countries which include the attainment of Ghana independence, fighting for human rights and consolidation of unity and solidarity among African.

6. It has contributed to the emergence of ex-soldiers: These were war returners that broght new tectneque of fighting from the second world war, they educated their fellow Africans, they brought awereness and conscioness hence the rise of African nationalism. The ex soldiers from WWI and WWII contributed to the rise of nationalism. These promises were promised employment and good life and return.The promises were not Fulfilled from there, these soldiers started to question the colonial government. These soldiers came with new ideas and technique for fighting one of the ideas used that “white man can be defeated”the soldiers were abandoned false idea, that white man can not be defeated”. the experience in the war seen Example: Dedan Kimath during Maumau was in kenya 1952, and Ahmed Ben Bella of Algeria. white man dying and other running away.

7. It has contributed to the rise massive political parties: After the second world war many African become conscious on political affairs, hence due to the influence of African welfare association like peasant cooperative unions has led to the formation of massive political parties as the platfirms for dtruggle for independence. Example TANU (Tanganyika), KANU (Kenya), ANC (South Africa), CPP (Ghana), ASP (Zanzibar) and ZAP (Zimbabwe).

8. It has led to the formation of Africans welfare association and cooperative Africans unions: Due to increase in intensive exploitation, African decided to form different workers cooperation like trade unions, peasant cooperation. Therefore these welfare association become as platforms during the struggle for independence hence they contributed to the rise of mass political parties, unity and solidarity, conscious and awareness among African. Example: Kilimanjaro Native planter Association KNC) The Bataka Association -Uganda and The Bukoba Cooperative Union.

9. It has led to the emergence of non-Algned movement (NAM): This was the organization formed by the third world countries (African and Asian countries) which do not support any side of cold war block. The organization aimed at excluding the third world countries which include both African and Asia countries from supporting the ideology of big powers so as to make these countries to get support quickly from the big powers to struggle for independence. 

The movement was formed in since the time of Bandung conference in 1955 in Indonesia but it has come to gain momentum and come to be practiced by 1961 during the Belgrade conference. The movement contributed to the rise of African nationalism through promotion of unity and solidarity, awareness and consciousness, fighting for human rights and provision of moral and materials support to the members colonies struggling for independence.

B. THE INFLUENCE OF EX-SOLDIERS TO THE RISE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

Ex-soldiers: Were war returners who went to fight the second world war for the aim of assisting their colonial masters. They normally come with new ideas and tectneque of fighting from the first and second world war. However they educated their fellow Africans, they brought awereness and conscioness hence the rise of African nationalism. The ex soldiers from WWI and WWII contributed to the rise of nationalism. These ex-soldiers were promised employment, freedom and good life after return.

The promises were not Fulfilled from there, these soldiers started to question the colonial government. These soldiers came with new ideas and technique for fighting one of the ideas used that “white man can be defeated”the soldiers were abandoned false idea, that white man can not be defeated”. the experience in the war seen. History tell us that more than one million soldiers were taken from Afeican colonies to fight in the world wars. Example: Mau Maau war in Kenya unde Dedan Kimath and General China, in1952, and FLN in Algeria by Ahmed Ben Bella.

THE ROLE/CONTRIBUTIONS OF EX-SOLDIERS TO THE RISE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. They contributed to the formation of military wings: These soldiers came with new ideas and technique for fighting by using the ideas removing negative ideas towards the whitemen, hence they learnt that “white men can be defeated” the soldiers were abandoned false idea, that white man can not be defeated”. Therefore they mobilized their fellow African and fight for independence. Example: Dedan Kimath during Maumau was in kenya 1952, and Ahmed Ben Bella of Algeria.

2. They rised awareness and consciousness to their fellow Africans: The ex- Soldiers mobilized their fellow African to have the true sense of nationalism that they can able to remove a way colonial rule in Africa.

3. They contributed to the formation of political parties: Ex-soldeirs play very greate role to the formation of massive political parties in Africa which aimed at creating platform for discussing independent matters. Example Front de Liberation Nationale (FLN) in Algeria, FRELIMO in Mozambique and MPLA in Angola.

4. They provided financial support: Normally after the end of the second world war some ex-soldiers were rewarded by their colonial masters as the appreciations in terms of money, hence ex-soldiers used their money to support liberation struggle in thee respective countries. Hence the rise of African nationalism.

5. They promoted unity and solidarity: Most ex-soldiers become catalyst on uniting

their people to struggle for independence as the together is power and separate is weak. Therefore this has stimulated great sense of nationalism by removing any form of classes among African.

6. They introduced new fighting techniques: The ex-soldiers normally come with new ideas and tectneque of fighting from the first and second world war. However they educated their fellow Africans about the weakness of whites that they can be defeated, they can die and run a way hence the rise of African nationalism.

C. PAN AFRICANISM AND THE STRUGGLE FOR AFEICAN NATIONALISM

Pan Africanism: This movement was formed in the United States of America by the Black people in Diaspora. The main goal of the movement was to fight for the abolition of slave trade and slavery, but after the abolition of slave trade it turned into a liberation

 

movement whereby it advocated for nationalism. The movement argued that, “Africa was Africans” After the independence of Ghana in 1957, that Pan Africanism movement shifted its headquarters to Accra where it spear headed the independence of many African countries.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES OF PAN- AFRICANISM

1. To brings unity and solidarity among blacks in the world: The movement also aimed at bringing unity and solidarity among the people of African origin. Unity was an important ingredient in the struggle to regain the fundamental rights of the black people.

2. To fight to end colonialism to the Africans colonies: The movement aimed at fighting against colonialism in Africa and ensures that Africans are given their self rule. The Africans were subjected to colonial rule for a long period where they were exposed to all sorts of exploitation and oppression.

3. To promotes consciousness among the blacks: The movement aimed at raising consciousness among African people towards elimination of their inferiority complex which would restore respect and freedom to black people. The supporters of the movement claimed that the formation of a strong state will lead to the elevation of the African race.

4. To abolish slave trade and slavery: The movement wanted to liberate Africans from slave trade and slavery. Under slavery the people of African origin were subjected to all evils. They were denied the right to education, right to freedom of expression, right to marry and the right to own property.

5. To fight for human rights: The movement also wanted to regain the fundamental rights of the people of African origin. They were denied right to education, right to freedom of expression, right to marry and own property.

6. To promotes self determination among African in the world: The movement aimed at raising self determination to the black people towards formation of the united states of Africa which would have restore respects and freedom to the black people. The supporters of the movement claimed that the formation of a strong African state will lead the elevation of the African race.

7. To promotes good living conditions among Africans: The movement aimed at empowering the black people economically by establishing economic ventures and creating employment for the millions of people of African origin that were living in poverty.

 

CONTRIBUTIONS OF PAN AFRICANISM TO THE RISE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. It has promoted unity and solidarity to the African countries: The Pan Africanist movement united all Africans from all walks of life to oppose colonialism. The common desire for independence was a unifying factor that terminated tribal interests. By uniting all Africans it became easy to oppose colonial rule.

2. It has provided liberation forum for struggle for independence: The movement provided a platform where Africans could discuss the grievances caused by colonialism. In all the congresses of the movement, the people of African origin discussed about implementing the spirit of oneness among all the black people all over the world.

3. It has promoted consciousness among Africans: The Movement awakened the interests of the Africans to fight for independence. During the conferences of the Pan African movement, members discussed a wide range of issues such as racial discrimination, unfair taxation policies and land alienation which they were facing under colonial rule.

4. It has developed sense of nationalism among African societies: The Pan African movement played a big role in the rise of African nationalism because it stressed that the fight for political independence by the Africans was a necessary step towards complete economic and social emancipation.

5. It has chosen total liberation in their struggle for independence from Manchester: The activities of the movement were shifted to Africa following the independence of Ghana in 1957. The Capital city of Ghana, Accra became the headquarters of Pan Africanism where Kwame Nkurumah spear headed the independence of many African countries.

Kwame Nkurumah

6. It has raised respect to African continent and its people: The movement represented the African continent in the international conferences especially in the United Nations Organization (UNO). The United Nations Organization wanted to ensure that all the countries attain independence throughthe peaceful means.

7. It has led to the formation of Organization of African Unity (OAU): Pan Africanism through various conferece agendas resulted in to the formation of OAU by 1963 African unity organization was formed at Adis Ababa in Ethiopia for the aim of strengthen African unity.

8. The movement has promoted education to African: Hence education enabled Africans to know their position in the world.

9. It has led to the establishment of regional integration among the African countries: Various economic groups were formed among the African for the aim economic transformation. Example ECOWAS, EAC, COMESA, and SADC.

D. THE DECLINE OF EUROPEAN IMPERIALISM AND THE STRUGGLE FOR AFRICAN NATIONALISM

Historically before the rise of USA as the leading new capitalist super power, the world economic supremacy was dominated by western European countries particularly Britain especially since the first phase of industrial revolution in Europe in 1750's. However by the 1870s there the transformation of industrial technology from the Britain to other European powers the tremendous situation which was caused by different factors like the British exhibition. 

The industrialization of other European countries contributed to high competition on production of goods, in the markets, searching for raw materials and searching for areas for investment. Therefore by the 1914's there was decline of European powers especially British and other super powers caused by different factors which resulted in to the rise of USA as a leading new capitalist super powers.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF DECILINE OF EUROPEAN IMPERIALISM TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. It has contributed to the rise of big powers: The decline of Euroean capitalism resulted in to the rise of USA and USSR as the leading new super powers in the world. Hence these big powers competed each other on spreading their ideologies in the colonies. USA wanted to spread capitalist ideology while USSR wanted to spread socialist ideology. These two super powers supported decolonization in the colonies through providing moral and materials support.

2. It contributed to the spread of democracy in the world: Many African colonies after the decline of imperialism were influenced by USA to liberalization ideas in the world for the aim having access to the third world countries for easy exploitation. Hence through spreading Democratic ideas has stimulated African struggle for independence.

3. Introduction of new economic policies in third world countries such as structural adjustment program (SAP).

4. It led to the intensive exploitation in the colonies: The decline of European powers has led to the ncrease in intensive exploitation to the colonies, through increase in land alienation, forced labour, taxation, payment of low wages and long working hours as the way of riviving the capitalist lost economy. Therefore this has made African to struggle for independence so as to remove a way colonial exploitation.

5. It has led to the spread of USA capitalist ideologies in the world: The decline of European powers resulted in to the spread of USA capitalist ideologies in the world particularly to the poor nations through Open Door Policy. However under the open door policy African were suppose to be openness in all aspects, hence the rise of nationalism.

6. It has affected colonial control in the colonies: The decline of European powers resulted in to weakening of colonial domination to their empires in Africa de to the influence of USA conditions under the Marshal plan and UN pressure which become very active on supporting decolonization processes in the colonies.

7. It has led to changing in capitalist government: The decline of European imperialism has led to the changing in government to some capitalist powers Europe which brought significant role to the rise of African nationalism. Example the decline of conservative party in 1945 under the Wiston Churchill has replaced by socialist party under Clement Attleee. Therefore thenew government proposed the end of colonialism in the colonies.

E. THE INFLUENCE OF BIG POWERS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

After the second world war the European powers like Britain and France were officially collapsed from economic super power. However the decline of European powers resulted in to the emergence of two world super powers which were united state of America (USA) and the United Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR).

THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF USA TO THE RISE OF AFRICANNATIONALISM

USA supported decolonization processes in the colonies through the following ways:-

1. Formation of marshal plan: The USA used marshal plan to provide help the western European countries affected by the second world war under the intensive condition including removing trade restrictions in their colonies so as USA to have free access in the colonies to meets her economic interests. However under the Marshal plan USA used open door policy where African were supposed to be open in accepting capitalism hence the rise of African nationalism.

 

2. The use of veto power of united nation: Normally USA as a permanent member of United nation he used veto power to pressurize the colonial powers to speed up the rate of decolonization in their colonies by using decolonization committee. Hence the rise of African nationalism.

3. Provision of moral and support: The united state of America provide moral support to African leaders by advising the methods of struggle and providing scholarship to them to study democratic issues in America. Example The African nationalistic leaders like kwame Nkrumah, kamuzu Banda and Nnandi Azikiwe studied in the United States of America thus they had been enlightened about them to take an active role in the pan African movement. But in another way USA supported African military support to use armed struggle to unwilling colonial powers.

4. Through the use of principle of self determination: The united state of America emphasized much the principle of self determination in the colonies that, African were free to choose the kind of government they wish. Hence under this principle African increased the struggle for independence.

5. Through supporting human rights: USA by incooparating with UN demanded more the observation of human rights and hating much any kind of colonialism in African which resulted in to the development of African nationalism.

6. Provision of military support: United state of America supported many African countries military assistance to destroy colonialism especially to those colonies with impressive colonial powers who always were disliked to grant independence to African in peaceful, hence African in such colonies were employed armed struggle. Example in Kenya, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe.

THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF USSR TO THE RISE OF AFRICANNATIONALISM

USSR supported decolonization processes in the colonies through the following ways:-

1. Provision of moral support: USSR provided moral or decolonization ideas through education to the African freedom fighters. Under this context USSR advised African to form political parties. Example CPP in Ghana, MPLA in Angola, FRELIMO in Mozambique and FLN in Algeria.

2. The use of veto power of united nation: Normally USSR as a permanent member of United nation he used veto power to pressurize the colonial powers to speed up the rate

 

of decolonization in their colonies by using decolonization committee. Hence the rise of African nationalism.

3. The use of cold war opportunities: Normally USSR use the chance of cold war opportunity to come in Africa and spread socialism so as to avoid the spread of capitalism, hence the rise of African Nationalism.

4. Through fighting to end apartheid policy in south Africa: The united Soviet socialist republic (USSR) played very great role in the struggle to destroy apartheid policy in south Africa by encouraging the formation of socialist parties, encouraging unity and solidarity.

5. Through supporting human rights: The united Soviet socialist republic (USSR) supported much African nationalism through struggle for human rights. Normally this was become possible by incooparating with UN committee. The USSR was demanded more the observation of human rights and hating much any kind of colonialism in African which resulted in to the development of African nationalism.

6. Provision of military support: United Soviet supported many African countries military assistance to destroy colonialism especially to those colonies with impressive colonial powers who always were disliked to grant independence to African in peaceful,

hence African in such colonies were employed armed struggle. Example in Mozambique, Angola, Zanzibar, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe.

F. THE INFLUENCE OF UNITED NATION ORGANIZATION (UNO) TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The United nation organization (UNO): is the international organization formed after the second world war to protect the wold peace and security. Normally UN was formed in 1945 immediately after the second world war to replace the former league of nation which was formed at Geneva Switzerland in 1920. The headquarter of UNO was at San Fransisco USA.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF UNITED NATION (UN) TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The United Nation Organization (UNO) played very great role to the development of African nationalism through the following ways:-

1. It has provided platform for struggle for independence: Normally UN become decolonization platform since it has invited many African countries to express their nationalistic movement in their countries. Example J. K. Nyerere was invited by UN committee to express the progress of nationalistic struggle in Tanganyika.

2. It has formed decolonization committee: However by the 1961 UN formed decolonization committee which its key function was to speed up the rate of decolonization in the colonies by pressurizing colonial powers to grant independence to Africans.

3. It contributed to the formation of trusteeship council: This was In special council formed to oversee and take care for those mandate colonies for smooth independence. Examples Tanganyika, Cameroon, Namibia, Libya.

4. It has advocated the struggle for human rights: United Nation organization ensured respect of human rights worldwide including African colonies and their people. Example by the 1948 united nation formed UDHR agency for supporting human rights in the world.

5. By provision of moral support: The united nation provide scholarship and encouraged African nationalistic leaders to study abroad about the administrative issues on how to led the country after independence as well as the nationalistic struggle methods like revolution, constitution and armed struggle.

6. By providing military assistance to the colonies: United nation provided military support to the African freedom fighters to remove a way the impressive colonial powers. Example by the 1960 UN set military troops to Congo for peace keeping.

7. It has the attracted the attention of the big powers: The organization enabled members countries to atract the big nations support the decolonization processes in these countries by encouraging unity and solidarity. However the big powers include the United state of America (USA) and United soviet socialist Republic (USSR).

8. It has contributed to the emergence of strong leaders: Normally the organization resulted in to the emergence of strong African leaders especially those who attended conference, hence have become actively during the struggle for independence. Example Kwame Nkurumah of Ghana, J. K. Nyerere of Tanganyika and Nelson Mandera.

G. THE INFLUENCE OF BANDUNG CONFERENCE TO THE RISE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The Bandung conference: Was the international meeting held at Bandug in Indonesia in 1955 between Africa and Asian countries. The conference was sponsored by five Asian independent States which were Indonesia, Burma, Siri Lanka, Pakistan and India. Some

 

African countries participated on this conference were Algeria, Egypt, Sudan, Ghana Libya and Ethiopia. The popular leaders of this conference were Ahmed Sukano (Indonesia), Jawahalal Nehru (The Indonesian prime minister, Grammar Mbdel Nasser (Egyptian president) Kwame Nkurumah (The Ghana president). The major aim of this conference was to promotes cooperation among the African countries for struggle for independence.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF BANDUNG CONFERENCE OF 1955 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. It has promotes shelf determination among the African and Asia countries: The conference helped African to know their rights in the world through realization of colonial evils.

2. It has provided platform to fight for African nationalism:The conference provided a platform the ground where Africans could discuss the grievances caused by colonialism.

3. It has led to the formation of non-aligned movement: The conference contributed to the formation of non-aligned movement which was worked together with United nation to pressurize colonial powers to grant independence to African colonies.

4. It has provide moral and materials support to the struggle for independence: The independent African countries from this conference were agreed to assist materially the struggle for independence of other African countries. Example Egypt and Ghana were agreed to support decolonization process in Algerian and Cameroon.

5. It has promoted cooperation between African and Asian countries: The conference enabled members countries to stabilize unity and cooperation towards the struggle for independence support the decolonization processes to both African and Asian countries.

6. It has promoted unity and solidarity to the African countries: The conference united all Africans from all walks of life to oppose colonialism. The common desire for independence was a unifying factor that terminated tribal interests. By uniting all Africans it became easy to oppose colonial rule.

7. It has raised consciousness and awareness among African: The conference resulted in to the rise of political and social awareness among African during the struggle for independence.

8. It has contributed to the consolidation of pan Africanism: The conference promoted

 

link to cooperate with pan Africanism toward the struggle for African and Asian independence. Example by the 1958 some Asian countries participated to Accra conference in Ghana to deal with nationalistic issues.

9. It has advocated the struggle for human rights: United Nation organization ensured respect of human rights worldwide including African colonies and their people. Example by the 1948 united nation formed UDHR agency for supporting human rights in the world.

H. THE NON-ALGNED MOVEMENT (NAM) AND DECOLONIZATION PROCESSES IN AFRICA

Non-Algned movement (NAM): is the organization formed by the third world countries which do not support any side of cold war block. The the organization aimed at excluding the third world countries which include both African and Asia countries from supporting the ideology of big powers so as to make these countries to get support quickly from the big powers to struggle for independence. 

The movement was traced back since the Bandung conference in 1955 and come to be practiced by 1961 during the Belgrade conference. Therefore African leaders were allowed to be ready to accept help from any country to get rid from colonialism. The organization it was formed by the five members which were Ahmed Sukano (Indonesia), Jawahalal Nehru (The Indonesian prime minister, Grammar Mbdel Nasser (Egyptian president) Kwame Nkurumah (The Ghana president), etc.

OBJECTIVES OF NON-ALGNED MOVEMENT (NAM)

1. To speed up the rate of decolonization processes in the colonies.

2. To find out the position of member state in the cold war block.

3. To eradicates all forms ofcolonialism and new colonialism.

4. To fight against racism.

5. To encourage peaceful solving conflicts.

6. To oppose the creations of military base by big powers.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF NON-ALGNED MOVEMENT (NAM) TO THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE IN AFRICA

1. It has provided platform to fight for Afeican nationalism:The movement provided a platform where Africans could discuss the grievances caused by colonialism.

2. It has weakened colonialism: Nonaligned countries used United nation platform to pressurize colonial powers to grant independence to African colonies.

 

3. It has provide moral and materials support to the struggle for independence: The independent African countries were agreed to assist materially the struggle for independence of other African countries. Example Egypt and Ghana were agreed to support decolonization process in Algerian and Cameroon.

4. It has the attracted the attention of the big powers: The organization enabled members countries to atract the big nations to support the decolonization processes in these countries. However the big powers include the United state of America (USA) and United soviet socialist Republic (USSR).

5. It has promoted unity and solidarity to the African countries: The movement united all Africans from all walks of life to oppose colonialism. The common desire for independence was a unifying factor that terminated tribal interests. By uniting all Africans it became easy to oppose colonial rule.

6. It has raised consciousness and awareness among African: The conference resulted in to the rise of political and social awareness among African during the struggle for independence.

7. It has contributed to the emergence of strong leaders: Normally the organization resulted in to the emergence of strong African leaders especially those who attended conference, hence have become actively during the struggle for independence. Example Kwame Nkurumah of Ghana.

I. THE INFLUENCE OF INDEPENDENCE ASIAN COUNTRIES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

Asian countries like African countries they share the same history because all of the were colonized by European countries. Normally Burma and Siri Lanka were under Britain, Indonesia was under Holland, Vietnam was under French, China was under Britain, America, France and Japan at different times. However immediately after the second world war the Asian countries gained momentum for struggle for independence. 

By the 1947's many Asian colonies started to gain their political independence. Example India under the Mahtmah Gandhi (1947), Pakistan (1947), Indonesia under the Ahmed Sukarno (1945),  Burma (1948), Vietnam  (1955)

THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF INDEPENDENCE ASIAN COUNTRIES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

Asian countries played very great role to the development of African nationalism through the following ways:-

 

1. It has inspired consciousness and awareness to Africans: The independence of Asian countries inspired many African countries to have political awareness towards fight for their independence as well as the lesson learnt from Asian countries. This is one of the reasons that encouraged Africans to use armed struggle so as to attain independence.

2. It has provided material support to other African colonies: The Asian countries supported African countries by providing moral and materials support. Example some leaders from Asian countries were attended the Accra conference in Ghana.

3. It has the attracted the attention of the big powers: The independence of these countries enabled members countries to atract the big nations to support the decolonization processes in these countries after being lined together. However the big powers include the United state of America (USA) and United soviet socialist Republic (USSR).

4. It contributed to the formation of non-aligned: The independence of these countries contributed to the formation of non-aligned movement which was worked together with United nation to pressurize colonial powers to grant independence to African colonies.

5. It has become a role model to other African countries: The independence of these countries has became the model for all African countries to incorporate and struggle for independence.

6. It has promoted unity and solidarity to the African countries: The movement united all Africans from all walks of life to oppose colonialism. The common desire for independence was a unifying factor that terminated tribal interests. By uniting all Africans it became easy to oppose colonial rule.

7. They lined with united nation: The Asian independent States were incorporated with UN to pressurize the colonial powers to grant independence to African countries. Therefore by using UN decolonization committee African colonies and their people were respected.

J. FORMATION OF AFRICAN WELFARE ASSOCIATION

Welfare association: these were the African associations that were formed by African societies for the aim of avoiding economic exploitation done by colonialists. Normally the African welfare associations include workers associations, trade unions and peasant cooperatiove unions.

 

EXAMPLE OF AFRICAN WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS

There were so many examples of African welfare associations formed by African societies during the struggle for independence in Africa which were:-

i. Tanganyika Territory Civil servants association (T.T.C.S.A) Under Martin Kayamba in Tanganyika.

ii. Kikuyu youth Association in Kenya.

iii. The Kilimanjaro Native Planters (KNP) in Tanganyika.

iv. The Bataka association formed in Uganda in 1927 led by Clement Kiiza.

v. Kikuyu Central association of 1928 led by Jomo Kenyatta.

vi. Buhaya Native Growers of 1936 in Tanganyika.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES OF FORMATION AFRICAN WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS

1. To opposes heavly taxes imposed by colonialists.

2. To opposes racial segregation.

3. To opposes low prices of African raw materials.

4. To opposes cultural interfarence.

5. To opposes land alianation.

6. To opposes poor working condition.

7. To eradicates middlemen to African peasants.

8. To promotes unity and solidarity among African.

CONTRIBUTION/ROLES MADE BY THE WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. They brought awereness and consciousness to African societies.

2. They educated African to know their position in the world.

3. They brought massive political parties. E.g TAA in 1948 which later become TANU in 1954.

 

4. They provided chance to African to discuss their independence matters.

5. They fought for human rights.

6. They brought unity and solidarity among African.

7. They brought strong nationalistic leaders. E.g J.K. Nyerere of Tanganyika, etc.

 WEAKNESS/FAILURE/PROBLEMS OF AFRICAN WELFARE ASSOVIATION

1. They lacked commited or strong leaders.

2. Poverty or limited resources.

3. Strong opposition from colonial government.

4. Ignorance among Africans.

5. Tribalism and ethnicity.

6. Disunity among African.

7. Ideological differences.

8. Communication barrier.

FORMATION OF AFRICAN INDEPENDENT/PROTESTANT CHURCHES

African Independent churches: Were churchies that built by African for the aim of avoiding European church leaders. However, the independent churches did not only preach religious issues but also they addressed social, political and economic exploitation by the colonialists to Africans. 

These churches were also against the European missionaries, white masters and colonial government officials who were basically the agents of imperialism.

EXAMPLE OF AFRICAN INDEPENDENT/PROTESTANT CHURCHES

There were so many examples of independent churches formed by African societies during the struggle for independence in Africa which were:-

i. The Watch Tower Church Movement in Malawi from 1906.

 

ii. The Kikuyu Orthodox Church in Kenya.

iii. The African National Church in Tanganyika.

iv. The independent Church movement in Zaire by Simon Kibanga.

v. The united Native Church of Cameroon.

vi. The independent church in Kenya Understand Saudi Maina in 1922.

 AIMS/OBJECTIVES/REASONS FOR FORMATION AFRICAN INDEPENDENT CHURCHES

1. To opposes taxation.

2. To avoids cultural interference.

3. To avoids economic exploitation through religion charities.

4. To educates African to know their basic rights.

5. To promotes unity and solidarity among African.

6. To opposes racial segregation.

7. To opposes European church leaders.

CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY THE AFRICAN PROTESTANT/INDEPENDENT CHURCHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. They raised consciousness to Africans.

2. They brought unity among African.

3. They educated African to know their rights.

4. Formation of political parties.

5. They provided chance for African to discuss their independence matters.

6. They raised awareness' among African.

WEAKNESS/FAILURE/PROBLEMS OF AFRICAN INDEPENDENT CHURCH MOVEMENTS

1. Disunity.

2. Limited resources.

3. Opposition from colonialists.

 

4. Ignorance among African.

5. Differences in interests.

6. Poor communication.

7. Tribalism and Ethinicity.

SIGNIFICANCE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

1. It promoted unity among Africans.

2. It has removed the colonial evils. This include colonial exploitation.

3. It brought political awareness.

4. It brought self rule to African.

5. It brought economic development.

6. It leads to establishment of democratic government in Africa. 

FORMATION OF MASSIVE POLITICAL PARTIES

Political party: is the group of people who agreed to have the common believes and interests. There were many political parties that were formed by African during the struggle for independence example of political partiea formed were, Tanganyika National Union (TANU) 1954 in Tanganyika under the J. K. Nyerere, Kenya African Union (KANU) under Jomo Kenyatta in 1944 in Kenya, Nigeria National Congress Party (NCNP) in Nigeria, Afro-Shiraz Party (ASP) in zanzibar, Congess people party (CPP) in Uganda, Convectional People Party (CPP) in 1948 in Ghana under the Kwame Nkurumah, The united Gold coast convection party (UGCCP) under the J. B. Dangah and Dr. Kwame Nkurumah in 1947 in Ghana, National liberation movement (NLM) under Dr. Bussia, this party consisted the majority of Ashanti, SWAPO under Sam Nujuma in Namibia in 1960, Pan-African Congress (PAC) in south Africa, African National Congress (ANC) in south Africa under Nelson Mandera, FNL under the Ahmed Ben Bela in Algeria.

STRENGTHS/CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY POLITICAL PARTIES TO THE RISE OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

 

1. They brought awereness and consciousness to Africans.

2. They provided chance to african to discuss their independence matters.

3. They broght unity among people.

4. They educated African to know their position in the world.

5. They eradicated racial segregation.

6. They fought for human rights.

WEAKNESS/ PROBLEMS FACED MOST AFRICAN POLITICAL PARTIES

1. Strong opposition from colonial government.

2. Lack of strong and committed leaders.

3. Limited resources or lack of fund.

4. Ignorance among the African.

5. Tribalism and ethnicity.

6. Disunity among African.

7. Presence of many political parties.

8. Communication barrier.

DECOLONIZATION PROCESSES IN THE COLONIES

Decolonization: is the process of removing away colonialism in Africa. Normally African states employed different means in the struggle for independence. 

The methods employed/used/waged depended of course on the nature of the colonial economy which was practiced in the colony, for example almost all African colonies which were settler colonies regained their freedom through the barrel of gun because the settlers had had invested much in the respective colonies thus they were not willing to grant them independence. The common forms of struggles were:

FORMS OF DECOLONISATION PROCESS IN AFRICA

1. Constitutional/peaceful means: In this method, the colonies used peaceful means such as negotiation, dialogues diplomacy while demanding for their freedom. Most of the colonies, which attained their freedom through this means, were under the UNO

 

Trusteeship council. The respective nationalistic leaders went almost annually to the UNO Trusteeship council to plead for the freedom of their countries examples of the African countries which regained their freedom through constitutional means are/were Ghana (1957), Tanganyika (1961) etc.

2. Armed struggle/guerilla warfare barrel of gun/bloodshed: This was the means employed by some African states to liberate themselves. Most of these were the ones in which settlers had invested much and that they were not willing to leave for it was like committing an economic suicide examples of African states which regained their freedom through this means were Kenya (1963), Zimbabwe (1980), Congo (1960), Angola (1975) etc.

3. Revolutionary means: A revolution is a complete overthrow of the existing system of governance by a group, which is subjected to it and is being mistreated, exploited, and discriminated; oppressed etc. a par excellence example of a colony, which waged this means for its liberation, is Zanzibar undertook holistic revolution on Sunday 12th January in 1964. The revolution, which completely overthrew, the Jamshid Abdullah Sultanate regime.

4. Combinational means: It was a blend of both constitutional and armed struggle. Some countries embarked on this method following the failure of the peaceful means. A par excellence example is South Africa which embarked on armed struggle soon after the March 21st 1960 Sharpeville massacre. The ANC leaders being led by Oliver Thambo and Nelson Mandela formed the fighting wing (Ukhomto we sizwe). (The spear of the Nation) which led liberation movement.

FACTORS DETERMINED AFRICAN NATIONALISM AND DECOLONIZATION PROCESS

1. The richness of the colonies: some African colonies blessed with many resources such as water bodies, fertile land, minerals, etc hence to such colonies African applied armed struggle because colonial masters in such colonies become impressive to grant independence smoothly.

2. The nature of colonial government: some colonial governments like Portuguese and Boers were harsh and they do not ready to grant independence to Africans, however the African in such colonies they decided to use armed struggle.

3. The number of settlers in the colonies: Some colonies with many settlers become impossible to use peaceful means because settlers opposed the efforts of African nationalism E.g S. Africa, Kenya, Mozambique, Angola, etc.

4. The extent of investment of colonialists: The colonial masters become impressive to grant independence to the colonies that were heavly inveated. E.g. S.Africa, mozambique, etc

5. The status of the colonies: Those colonies that were under the trusteeship system of the united nations organization (UNO) become possible to get their political independence under the peaceful means compared to other colonies.

6. The economic position of colonial masters: some colonial powers were poor in their home countries hence they regarded their colonies as the sources of each and everythings moreover they regarded their colonies as the oversees provinces. E.g. portuguese regarded their colonies like Mozambique and Angola as the overseas Provence's rather than being colonies.

A. THE INFLUENCE OF GHANA INDEPENDENCE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

Ghana was one of the African countries that attained independence by the use of peaceful methods or constitutional method. Ghana was initially called Gold coast.

In 1946 the British colonial government introduced what was called the Burns constitution. Although this constitution provided for an African majority in the legislative council, it had two main weaknesses. The first weakness was the legislative council was merely advisory and it did not have deliberative vote, the decisions were made by the British officials. The second weakness was Its representatives were very limited because out of the eighteen, thirteen were chiefs who were selected by their fellow chiefs who were supporters of the colonial system.

The Burns aroused frustration among the Africans in Ghana especially elites. As a result they formed a nationalist movement known as the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) in 1947 under the leadership of SB Danquah, Kwame Nkrumah was the secretary. The UGCC organize numerous attacks to the colonial government, this forced it make another constitution known as the “coussey constitution”. This constitution proved for more elected members in the legislative council. In addition eight out of eleven cabinet posts were to be held by Africans.

The new constitution seemed to have pleased some of the members of the UGCC, but the radical ones e.g. Kwame Nkurumah broke away from the UGCC and formed another nationalist movement known as the Convention People Party (CPP) in 1947.

The CPP had two powerful slogans known as, “Seek first the political Kingdom and all things will be added unto it” and “self government now”. The CPP was advocating for complete independence and not changes in colonialism. There was a political movement known as the National Liberation Movements (NLM) that was formed to challenge CPP.

REASONS FOR THE SUCCESS OF GHANA INDEPENDENCE

There are various factors that contributed to the successful of Ghana independence which were:

1. Absence of tribalism: There was absence of tribalism in Ghana whereby the political party, Convention Peoples Party was not associated with any major tribe in Ghana. The absence of tribalism made it possible for the nationalists to get enough support that was needed to present a common front against the colonial government.

2. Good leadership of Kwame Nkurumah: Strong leadership is one of the factors that enabled Ghana to acquire her independence earlier than many African countries, Kwame Nkurumah was a strong leader who was able to unite all Africans in Ghana and fight for one common cause that is independence.

3. Presence of clear policies on Convention People Party (CPP): The Convention Peoples Party that fought for Ghana’s independence had clear policies and elaborates programs. The party advocated for better prices for peasants products high wages to African workers and getting rid of colonial rule. This impressive idea managed to get support of the people in the struggle for independence.

4. The use of common language: The use of English as a common language helped greatly to the independence struggle in Ghana. This language was known to almost all the people in Ghana hence they became aware about the objectives of the Ghanaian nationalists and gave them the much needed support against the colonial government.

5. Absence of many white settlers: There was absence of many white settlers in Ghana; the British had established a peasant economy thus they did not invest heavily. The absence of many white settlers made it easy for the British to grant independence to Ghana.

6. Good transport system: Ghana had relatively a good transport system which was helped by the small nature of the country. The transport system made it possible for the nationalists to move around the country campaigning to overthrow the colonial regime.

7. Popularity of Convention People Party: The CPP was very popular in Ghana; the party had great support from the cocoa growers and the peasants and there were the ones who made up the biggest party of the population. The party became so popular that in the 1951 elections, it won 33 seats against the three of UGCC. Following this result a government and in 1952, he became the Gold coasts first prime minister. On March of 6 th 1957, the Gold coast became independent taking the name of the ancient Ghana Empire, In July 1960; Ghana became a republic with Kwame Nkurumah as the first president.

8. The influence of external forces: External forces such as the United Nations Organization rise of USSR and the USA contributed greatly to the independence of Ghana. The UN put pressure on Britain to grant independence to Ghana. The USSR pledged to assets all African countries in their struggle for independence.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF GHANA INDEPENDENCE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICAN NATIONALISM

The independence of Ghana in 1957 marked a turning point in Africa, it played a great role in ensuring the rest of the continent is liberated from colonial rule and this cause was led by Kwame Nkurumah.

1. It has inspired consciousness: The independence of Ghana in 1957 inspired many African countries to fight for their independence as Kwame Nkurumah acted as a limelight to other African states that were still under colonialism to fight for their independence. This is one of the reasons that encouraged Africans to use armed struggle so as to attain independence.

2. It has provided material support to other African colonies: Ghana under Kwame Nkurumah provided financial support to most of the nationalist movements in Africa that were fighting for independence. The financial and moral support given by Nkurumah inspired many African countries to fight against colonial rule.

3. It become headquarter for pan Africanism: Following the independence of Ghana in 1957, Accra the capital city of Ghana became the headquarters of the pan African movement. The Pan African movement played a significant role in the independence of Ghana. In 1958 all independent states such as Libya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Morocco, Tunisia and Ghana met in Accra where they laid strategies on how to help other African countries to attain independence.

4. It has encouraged African unity: Kwame Nkurumah contributed to the independent of many African countries by encouraging unity in the continent. He convened a meeting for all African trade unions in 1959 with the aim to unite all African states into a confederation. African unity was a crucial factor if African was to succeed against colonial rule.

5. It has pressurized colonial powers to grant independence to African colonies: Kwame Nkurumah exerted a lot of pressure on France to grant independence to Algeria. In 1959 to 1960 a team of delegates from Africa, Britain and America went to monitor the situation in Algeria. It was Nkurumah who took initiative of such a visit. Ghana also pressurized France to end her dominated in West Africa.

6. The role of radio Ghana: Radio Ghana played a great role in the struggle for independence. It became the mouth piece of African nationalist movements to air out their feelings towards colonial government exploitation and oppression. Broad casting on the radio led to massive support for the nationalist both in and outside Africa.

7. It has become a role model to other African countries: Ghana under Nkurumah became the model for all African countries to emulate. Nkurumah once said that if he could, he would have delayed the independence of Ghana until a time when other Africa countries are independent. The position of Ghana encouraged many African countries to struggle for independence.

B. THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE IN ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe was a former British colony since the Berlin conference and after the Second World War. Zimbabwe attained political independence in 1980 through armed struggle method under the first president Robert Mugabe under the political party of Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU). Some political parties were formed during the struggle for independence in Zimbabwe, these were such as Zimbabwe African People Union (ZAPU) under Joshua Nkomo. 

Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) Robert Mugabe. Other political parties were such as; African National congress (ANC) was formed. ZAPU was banned in 1962 and its leaders were detained, but it continued to operate underground. A split in ZAPU leadership in 1963 led to the formation of Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) led by Ndabaningi Sethote.

In 1965 the white settlers declared their face independence called Unilateral declaration of independence (U. D. I) under Lan Smith.

REASONS FOR ARMED STRUGGLE IN ZIMBABWE

 

1. Banning of nationalist movements: The British colonial government was not ready to grant independence to Africans of Zimbabwe. A lot of measures were taken to suppress many nationalist movements in Zimbabwe in both leaders and their political parties. Example: Robert Mugabe was imprisoned for ten (10) years between 1964 to 1974. Moreover in 1962 ZAPU was banned this made Joshua Nkomo to operate out side.

2. Existence of tribalism: Tribalism hindered the struggle for independence in Zimbabwe. Most of the Nationalist movements were divided along tribal lines; the dominant tribes were the Shona and Ndebele. Due to tribalism the Africa nationalists could not put a common front against the colonialists, thus the only alternative left was to use armed struggle to attain independence.

3. Richness of Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe is so rich in terms of minerals such as gold and diamond and it has enough fertile soil that can support the growth of cash crops that were needed in the metropolitan countries. The richness of the colony made it difficult for the colonial government to grant it independence, this made the Africans to use armed struggle.

4. Existence of many settlers: The white settlers had established a settler economy in Zimbabwe where they had invested so much in plantation farms and mining activities. The massive investments made the colonial government reluctant to grant the Africans independence because it would tantamount to scarifying all the wealth in Zimbabwe. This position made the Africans to use armed struggle.

5. Declaration of independence by Ian Smith: The white settlers in Zimbabwe requested Britain to grant Zimbabwe independence but under minority rule i.e. controlled by the white settles. Britain approved the request and in 1965 Ian Smith unilaterally declared Zimbabwe independent, but under minority rule. This action prompted the Africans to engage in an armed struggle to attain their independence.

6. Harshness of the colonial government: The colonial government was very harsh in Zimbabwe; nationalist leaders were imprisoned and the government pursued policies such as forced labor whereby to implement this; travel passes were introduced to try and limit the movement of the people.

7. Disunity among Africans: The political parties in Zimbabwe were not united thus it became very difficult for them to present a common front against the colonial government. There were sharp differences between the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) and Zimbabwe African People’s Party (ZAPU). These differences left African nationalist like Mugabe with no choice but to use armed struggle.

8. Strong opposition from colonial powers: The Zimbabwe minority regime was supported by the imperialist’s powers in order to defend their interests. This was seen when powers like the USA, France and Germany failed to observe the United Nations sanctions code against Ian Smith minority regime.

However these factors compelled the African nationalist leaders to use armed struggle, majority rule in Zimbabwe was achieved in 1980.

C. THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE INPORTUGUESE COLONIES (ANGOLA AND MOZAMBIQUE) IN MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique was a former Portuguese colony since the Berlin conference and even after the Second World War in 1945. Mozambique attained her political independence in 15/June/1975 under the first president Samora Moises Machel under the political party called Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO). 

The struggle for independence in Mozambique started long time ago but it was gained momentum after the second world. Due to the presence of many obstacles like Bonnie political parties and killing of political leader example by the 1969 Edwardo Mondlane was assassinated by Pavel of bomb in Dar-es-salaam. However due to those challenges faced nationalists, most nationalist movements were organized in outsides or exile. 

There are some political parties formed to struggle for nationalism in Mozambique, therefore these are such as; National Democratic union of Mozambique formed in Southern Rhodesia in 1960, Mozambique African National Union formed in Kenya in 1961, African union of independent Mozambique formed in Nyasaland in 1961. By the end of 1961, all the three nationalist movements had shifted their headquarters to Dar es Salaam. 

In 1962 they merged or joined to form front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO) under Eduwado Mondlane. FRELIMO concentrated on training cadres, party organization and mobilization of world support. Actual armed struggle began in Mozambique in 1964 and the final victory of FRELIMO and the people of Mozambique came in 1975 and Samora Machel became the President.

IN ANGOLA

Angola was a former Portuguese colony since the Berlin conference and even after the Second World War in 1945. Angola attained her political independence in 11/November/1975 under the first president Agustinho Neto under the political party of MPLA. Was like in Mozambique, Angola attained the political independence through armed struggle means due to the presence of several challenges. 

There are various political parties formed in Angola during the struggle for independence of Angola. The first political party to be formed was the Party for a United Struggle for Africans of Angola (PLUA) in 1953, the movement for the national independence of Angola (MINA) in 1955. however in 1956 PLUA and MINA United to form Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). The union of the People of Northern Angola (PMNA) in 1957. 

Other political parties formed in 1960's were such as; the Democratic Party of Angola (DPA) in 1962 and the National Union for the Total independence of Angola (UNITA) in 1966 under Jonas Savimbi. However the existence of these political parties delayed for independence of Angola. Especially UNITA and MPLA were posed intensive competition the organization of African Union (OAU) and communist block supported MPLA while the United Nations organization (UNO) supported UNITA. 

After the independence Jonas Savimbi caused opposition group which led to emergence of civil war in Angola since 1975's up to 2002 after the Death of Jonas Savimbi.

REASONS FOR APPLICATION OF ARMED STRUGGLE TO MOST PORTUGUASE COLONIES

The Portuguese colonies were, Angola, mozambique, Cape Verde, etc. Reasons for armed struggle in Angola and Mozambique are:-

1. Banning of nationalist movements: Portugal banned all nationalist movements in these colonies because she was not ready to grant independence. The nationalist movements in Mozambique were operating from outside, this complicated the struggle for independence thus the Africans had to resort to the use of armed struggle.

2. Presence of theory of overseas Provence: Portugal like France always argued that she had no colonies in Africa, but overseas provinces that were part of Portugal. Portugal claimed that these territories had no rights for independence. This position forced the Africans to use armed struggle to acquire independence.

3. The nature of Portuguese economy: Portugal was a very poor therefore she depended heavily on her colonies for wealth, due to this predicament Portugal could not grant independence to Angola and Mozambique , forcing the Africans to use armed struggle.

4. Richness of the colonies: A colony such as Angola was so rich in terms of raw material particularly all thus the Portuguese were not ready to grant it independence, hence the only solution left was to use armed struggle.

5. Harsh administration of Portuguese: Portugal was a fascist state i.e. was a country that did not believed in democracy to make matters worse, she believed in the everlasting civilizing mission in Africa hence she could not grant independence to Angola and Mozambique when the civilizing mission was incomplete. This altitude compelled the Africans to use armed struggle to regain their independence.

6. Conservatives of Portuguese: Many Portuguese were illiterate thus ignorant about the outside world especially of the new form of imperialism. Portugal believed that granting independence to her colonies meant the end of exploitation; hence it became reluctant to grant independence to its colonies. None the less, Angola and Mozambique were able to acquire independence after a prolonged armed struggle.

7. Intensive exploitation: African were tiredness with intensive exploitation done by Portuguese in their resources through land alienation, forced labour, low wages and low prices of their commodities.

8. Assassination of political leaders: Example Edwardo Mondlane of Mozambique was assassinated by a parcel of bomb in Dar-es-salaam on 3rd/February/1969

Conclusion: None the less, Angola and Mozambique were able to acquire independence after a prolonged armed struggle.

D. DECOLONIZATION PROCESSES IN TANGANYIKA

Like other African colonies, the struggle for independence in Tanganyika started long time ago but it was gained high momentum after the second world war in 1945. When Tanganyika transformed from Mandate system and put under Trustsheep council from UNO. 

The Tanganyika African Association (TAA) was a Tanganyika Territory political association, formed in 1929. It was founded by civil servants including Ali Saidi, members of an earlier association called the Tanganyika Territory African Civil Service Association (founded by Martin Kayamba in 1922). 

TAA later changed come to be known as Tanganyika National Union (TANU), was formed in 1954 under the leadership of J. K. Nyerere. Other political parties formed include African National Congress (ANC) under Zuberi Mtemvu, United Tanganyika Party (UTP) under Martin Kayamba, All Muslim National Union of Tanganyiak (AMNUT) Under Sheikh Abdallah Chaurembo, Democratic Paty (DP).

OBJECTIVES OF NANU

1. To removes and avoid tribalism.

2. To struggles for democratic government.

3. To promotes workers conditions.

4. To educates Tanganyika people about independence.

5. To removes all forms of colonialism.

 

6. To promotes unity and solidarity. 

REASONS FOR SUCCESS OF TANU

1. Good leadership of J.K. Nyerere: He organized well T. Nyika people to have unity.

2. Good policies of TANU: E.g of TANU's slogan "UHURU NA UMOJA, TANU YAJENGA NCHI"

3. The use of kiswahili language: It promoted unity among Tanganyika people.

4. Absence of many settlers: Tanganyika is unlike other colonies such as Kenya hence there was no many settlers.

5. Absence of many political parties.

6. The role played by last British governor Sir Richard Turnbull: He was very closed best friend of J.K.Nyerere hence he supported decolonization process in Tanganyika.

7. Unity among the people.

8. The influence of News papers. E g SAUTI YA TANU. 

REASONS FOR SUCCESS OF TANGANYIKA INDEPENDENCE

Tanganyika attained her political independence earlier than any aother east Afeican country. He attained her independence in 1961 under the keadership of J.K. Nyerere as the Prime minister. Under the political party of TANU.

The following are the reasons to why Tanganyika attained her pololitical independence earlier?

1. Good leadership of J.K. Nyerere: He organized well T. Nyika people to have unity.

2. Good policies of TANU: E.g of TANU's slogan "UHURU NA UMOJA, TANU YAJENGA NCHI"

3. The use of kiswahili language: It promoted unity among Tabganyika people.

4. Absence of many settlers: Tanganyika is unlike other colonies such as Kenya hence there was no many settlers.

 

5. Absence of many political parties.

6. The role played by last British governor Sir Richard Turnbull: He was very closely best friend of J.K.Nyerere hence he supported decolonization process in Tanganyika.

7. Unity among the people.

8. The role played by News papers. E g SAUTI YA TANU. 

CHALLECHES/PROBLEMS ENCOUTERED BY TANU

1. Lack of enough fund: this hindered decolonization efforts.

2. Strong opposition from colonial government.

3. Disunity of some people.

4. Vastness of the country: Normally Tanhanyika had hundrade kilometers of squre hence become difficults in spreading the TANU polices to every part.

5. Poor transport and communication: this include poor roads, transportation means, etc

6. Strong opposition from other political parties. E.g AMUT, ANC, UTP, against TANU.

7. Existence of High illiteracy: most people they do not understood the aim of nationalism.

E. DECOLONIZATION PROCESSES IN KENYA

Kenya attained her political independence in 1963 under the political party of Kenya African National Union (KANU) under the leadership of Jomo Kenyata. Normally kenya faced various problems during the struggle for independence such as,

1. Strong opposition from settlers.

2. Tribalism and ethnicity.

3. Classes

 

4. Ignorance.

5. Poverty.

6. Existence of many political parties. E.g KANU, KADU etc.

7. Disunity.

MAU MAU UPRISING WAR 1945-1952

Mau Mau uprising was a movement organized by Africans as a last resort in the struggle for independence. It was an attempt by the desperate people to resist against colonial system. The movement broke out in 1905’s. The kikuyu people initiated it and later it spread to other areas.

It was aimed at attaining or deserving national freedom and independence while Majimaji resistance was against imposition of colonial rule.

Mau Mau rebellion/ war was first organized by the kikuyu tribe who were affected much by British colonial exploitation through forced labour, land alienation and introduction of taxation (multi taxes) etc, then later on Mau Mau was joined by other tribes applied Guerrillas warfare techniques hiding in the forest and attacking the British areas suddenly.

THE AIM OF THE MAUMAU WAR/ UPRISING

1. To regain the lost independence: Mau Mau aimed at the desire to get their best independence.

2. Toeradicates colonial exploitation: Mau Mau aimed at killing all the Europeans and Africans to collaborate in order to stop colonial exploitation and oppression.

3. To sweep away colonialism: Mau Mau aimed at sending away all Europeans to their countries so as Africans to get their independence.

4. To fight for majority rule: Mau Mau aimed at attaining majority rule.Mau Mau aimed at getting equal rights with the white men.

5. To stop land alienation.

6. To attaining equal rights and representation in executive: because Kenyans were given no or few chances in colonial government and in legislative council for example in

 

1994 one Kenyan named Eliad Mathieu was a member of the parliament while in 1948 only four Kenyans were members of the parliament.

CAUSES/ REASONS OF MAU MAU RESISTANCE

1. Introduction of land alienation: British colonial government took Kenyan’s best and fertile land and left Kenyans landless under crown colony land policy of 1915 which gave British settlers long term of land ownership; for example 99years to 999 years.

2. Introduction of taxes: Mau Mau broke out [occurred] due to heavy taxes introduced by British government which Kenyans were forced to pay such as; matiti taxes which parents forced to pay for their mature young girls, hut tax and head tax.

3. Introduction of forced labour: Kenyans fought against British government and settlers due to forced labour where by Kenyans were forced to work with no or low wages to colonial government activities.

4. Introduction of Kipande system: British introduced an identity card which shows someone’s working place, which also forced people to work into colonial government and settle in the certain fixed places in year free of charge hence Kenyans became harsh hence the Mau Mau rebellion.

5. Interferences of culture: Kikuyu tribes had their cultural practices like female circumcision, polygamy, beliefs in many Gods etc; then the British interfered them as bad culture which made the kikuyu to fight.

6. British harsh rule: The British rule become very harsh to African hence leads to war to be innevitable.

7. Land Legislative ordinance of 1921.

8. Return of the Kenyan ex-soldiers from World War II.

9. They wanted to regain their lost independence: Mau Mau occurred because Kenyans were tired of the British colonial control which was very harsh

THE EFFECTS / IMPACTS OF THE MAU MAU

Many people including the Kenyans and whites [British] were killed during Mau Mau hence decreased number of people.

 

1. Destruction of properties: People’s properties including houses, farms, and infrastructures were destroyed during the fighting due to burning and the use of weapons.

2. Fear and insecurity: Mau Mau war created fear and insecurity among Kenyans; since it was fought for many years hence people were unsettled.

3. Family separations: Mau Mau war led to many men and women to leave their children because of the war as a result they left their children parentless hence family disintegration.

4. Migration of people: Mau Mau war led to many people to escape / run away to different areas due to the fear of war.

5. Hunger and famine: Mau Mau war led to the hunger and famine because people took long period to fight instead of involving in production. Also many food crops were destroyed during the fighting.

6. Mau Mau brought unity to the Kenyans: Mau Mau brought Kenyans together regardless of their tribal differences despite the war was initiated [started] by the kikuyu tribe.

7. Mau Mau led to the decolonization of Kenyans: Mau Mau contributed for the Kenyan independence in 1963.

CONTRIBUTION OF MAU MAU WAR TO KENYANS INDEPENDENCE

The war brought about positive political changes in Kenya.

1. The British opened the door for political negotiations. The Africans were given an opportunity to be represented in the legislative council.

2. The colonial government allowed political associations to operate at local level i.e. open politics. This change was a good start for Kenyans also the Kenyans were allowed to grow cash crops i.e. in the Kikuyu land, Emu etc.

3. It was a clear sign that the Africans would no longer tolerate foreign domination rather they needed full political independence.

4. Mau Mau paved the way for freedom and independence. The end of Mau Mau led the

 

British to start granting independence to start granting independence to the Kenyans

5. Mau Mau led Kenyans to be given social, political and economical rights such as participating in educational opportunities.

6. It has led to the raise of awareness and consciousness among Kenyans.

F. DECOLONIZATION PROCESS IN UGANDA

Uganda attained her political independence in 1962 through peaceful means under the political party of Uganda National congress (UNC) under the leadership of Milton Obote. Normally uganda faced various problems during the struggle for independence such as,

1. Strong opposition from colonial government.

2. Tribalism and ethinicity. E.g . Baganda and Bunyoro.

3. Religious conflict. E.g Catholic church.

4. Ignorance.

5. Poverty.

6. Existence of many political parties. Eg. UNC, UPC, D.P, KY.

7. Disunity.

G. THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE IN ZANZIBAR

Revolution: is the removing of existing government and replaced by another new government.

Zanzibar revolution: was the process of overthrowing the Arab rule under British colonial government. It occured in 1964. Under the leadership of Sheikh Aman Abeid Karume and his political party of Afro Shiraz Party (ASP).

Aims of Zanzibar revolution

1. To avoids racial segregation.

2. To removes economic exploitation.

3. To removes British colonial evils.

 

4. To brings socialism.

5. To regain the lost independence.

6. To removes Sultan rule.

CAUSES OF ZANZIBAR REVOLUTION

1. Intensive exploitation of African resources.

2. Economic hardship.

3. Historical grievances between Africa and Arabs during the slave trade.

4. Bad administration of Arabs rule.

5. Racial segregation.

6. Lack of democracy.

7. The influence of U.S.S.R.

EFFECTS/IMPACTS OF ZANZIBAR REVOLUTION

1. It leads to the nationalization of land.

2. It leads to the end of Arabs rule.

3. It brought equal distribution of resources.

4. It leads to the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

5. It led to the establishment of democratic government.

6. It leads to the end of racial segregation.

7. Spread of socialism ideologies in Zanzibar. 

H. DECOLONIZATION PROCESS IN S. AFRICA

 

Why it was difficult to remove apartheid policy in S. Africa?

South Africa: was a former Boer and British colony at a different time. Normally the struggle for independence in S. Africa started since early 1950's. However in 1960 manority rule was obtained. Therefore S. Africa regained her majority rule in 1994 through both peaceful and armed struggle. Under the leadership of Nelson Madiba Mandera and his political pary A.N.N.C.

REASONS FOR DELAY FOR SOUTH AFRICAN MAJORITY RULE

1. Existence of apertheid policy.

2. Existence of many settlers.

3. High investment of settlers.

4. Strong opposition from colonial government.

5. Disunity among people.

6. Barning of political parties. E.g ANC, ANNC etc.

7. Imprisonment of political leaders, e.g Nelson mandera, stive Biko, etc.

8. Poverty.

METHODS USED BY S. AFRICAN TO STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE

1. Formation of massive political parties. E.g. ANNC, ANC, etc.

2. The use of mass peaceful demostration. E g. the demonstration of 1960.

3. The use of arts, this include songs and poems. E.g Lucky Dube lunched his song known as "TOGETHER AS ONE" etc.

4. The use of mass media example Freedom radio.

5. The use religious forum.

6. Seeking support from the international level e.g UNO.

7. Strickes and riots.

Sharpeville masscre: was the massive assassination occured in S. Africa in 1960

 

whereby more than 60 blacks were killed. Source of the event was due to the peaceful demostration made by blacks against the pass law and apertheid policy.

Effects of sharpeville masscre

1. Loss of lives among blacks. More than 60 black were killed.

2. Destruction of properties.

3. Delaying for majority rule.

4. Collapse of apertheid policy.

5. Imprisonment of some political leaders.

6. It broughts serious struggle for nationalism.

PROBLEMS FACED BY AFRICAN DURING THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE

1. Barninning of political parties. E.g ANC in S. Africa, KANU in Kenya, FRELIMO in Mozambique, Mpla of Angola, etc.

2. Tribalism and Ethinicity. E g Baganda and Nyankole in Uganda.

3. Existence of high illiteracy among African people.

4. Imprisonment of political leaders. E.g Nelson Mandera was jailed for 27 year, Kwame Nkurumah was jaile for 1 year, Jomo Kenyatta for 22 yeats.

5. Assassination of political leaders. Example Eduardo Mondlane of Mozambique was assassinated by a parcel of bomb in Dar-es-salaam on 3rd/February/1969, Stive Biko of south Africa was assassinated after the Soweto massacre in 1976.

Dedan Kimathi of Kenya was assassinated on 27/October/1956, Stive Bicco of south Africa and Patrick Lumumba of Congo D.RC was assasinated in 1961.

6. Financial problem or limited resources.

7. Religionalism. E.g Nigeria, Sudan, Uganda, etc.

8. Regionalism. E.g Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, etc.

9. Poor transport and communication.

10. Strong opposition from colonial government.

 

11. Presence of many political parties. E g Kenya, S. Africa.

GUIDING QUESTIONS

1. Examine six contributions made by African independent church movement to the rise and development of African nationalism.

2.  Elaborate six weakness or shortcoming or putfall of African welfare association formed during the struggle for independence.

3. How did the USA supported decolonization processes in the colonies?

4. How did the USSR supported decolonization processes in the colonies?

5. Why African formed Welfare association?

6. With supportive examples show clearly the main obstacles or problems faced African during the struggle for independence. Six points.

7. Assess six problems encountered by TANU during the struggle for independence. Qn: Elaborate six challenges faced Tanganyika during the struggle for independence

8. Assess six problems faced Kenya during the struggle for independence.

9. Elaborate six problems faced Uganda during the struggle for independence.

10. Assess six aims of Zanzibar revolution.

11. Why S. African took so long to attain her majority independence? Six points. 

12. Why the struggle for majority rule in S. Africa was prolonged? Six points.

13. Why it was difficult to remove apartheid policy in S. Africa?

14. Elaborate six effects of Sharpeville Massacre in S. Africa in 1960.

15. Explain six methods employed by S. African during the struggle for independence.

16. How did the people of Zanzibar were enlightened by the revolution? Six ponts

17. Appraise six causes of Zanzibar revolution in 1964.

18. Elaborate six significance of African nationalism.

19. Critically explain six strengths of massive political parties to the rise of African nationalism.

20. Assess six weakness of African political parties formed during the struggle for independence.

21. Discuss six factors that determined the nature of African Nationalism. QN: Why African territories differ in their anti-colonial struggle? Six factors.

22. Why Ghana attained her political ndependence ealier than any othe African countries? Six points.

23. Elaborate six factors for the success of Ghana independence in 1957.

24. Elaborate six factors for delay of Zimbabwe independence.

25. Assess six challenges faced Africans in Zimbabwe during the struggle for independence.

26. Account for inevitably of bloodshed application in southern Rhodesia during the struggle for majority rule.

27. Assess six objectives of TANU during the struggle for independence in Tanganyika.