His 112 Post Colonial Presentation: Choose An African Or Asi

His 112 Post Colonial Presentation Choose An African Or Asian Nation

Choose an African or Asian nation that was colonized by a European power. Create an 8-12 slide PowerPoint presentation addressing the following: a. What is the pre-colonial history of this nation? b. What was this nation’s experience with colonization? Which nation(s) colonized this nation? c. How did this nation gain independence? Discuss its decolonization experience in relation to Chapter 31. d. What is the current political and economic condition of this nation? e. Given current trends, predict the future of this country. Please include images to make the presentation more interesting for other students. You will submit your presentation here and will also post your presentation in the Discussion forum.

Paper For Above instruction

The history of nations in Africa and Asia before colonization provides critical insights into their cultural, political, and social identities long before European powers arrived. Understanding the pre-colonial histories of these regions illuminates their rich civilizations, extensive trade networks, social structures, and spiritual beliefs that were well-established prior to colonization. For this presentation, I have chosen Nigeria, an African nation with a complex history that reflects significant pre-colonial achievements, colonization experiences, and post-independence developments.

Pre-Colonial History of Nigeria

Nigeria’s pre-colonial history is characterized by a mosaic of ancient kingdoms and city-states, including the Nok culture, which dates back to 1500 BCE, and prominent empires such as the Hausa city-states, the kingdom of Kanem-Bornu, the Oyo Empire, and the Benin Empire. These societies were renowned for their sophisticated governmental structures, vibrant cultural traditions, and economic prosperity, driven largely by trade in gold, salt, textiles, and agricultural products. Notably, the Benin Kingdom, in what is now southern Nigeria, was famous for its advanced art, especially bronze sculptures, and its complex political hierarchy.

Colonization of Nigeria

European contact with Nigeria dates back to the 15th century, but it was the British during the 19th century that established control over the region, after initially engaging in trade and diplomacy. The Scramble for Africa, formalized by the Berlin Conference of 1884-85, resulted in Nigeria falling under British colonial rule. Nigeria was administered as a amalgamation of various ethnic groups and territories, leading to the establishment of the Southern Nigeria Protectorate and the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. British rule was characterized by economic exploitation, cultural imposition, and political control, often undermining indigenous institutions.

Independence and Decolonization

Nigeria’s journey to independence was marked by political activism and nationalist movements that emerged during the early 20th century. The Nigerian nationalists, including leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello, demanded self-rule and challenged colonial authority. Following World War II, widespread unrest and increased demands for independence culminated in Nigeria gaining independence from Britain on October 1, 1960. The process was relatively peaceful compared to other decolonization struggles in Africa, though Nigeria faced internal challenges related to ethnic divisions and governance, which have persisted and evolved since independence.

Current Political and Economic Conditions

Today, Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and has a federal republic government structure. Politically, Nigeria faces challenges including corruption, political instability, and conflict in regions such as the Niger Delta and the northern states prone to insurgency by groups like Boko Haram. Economically, Nigeria remains highly dependent on oil exports, which account for a significant portion of government revenue and GDP. While there has been growth in sectors such as telecommunications, agriculture, and services, economic disparity and unemployment remain pressing issues. Efforts are ongoing to diversify the economy and improve governance, but the country continues to grapple with social and infrastructural challenges.

Future Predictions

Looking ahead, Nigeria’s future will likely be shaped by its ability to address internal conflicts, diversify its economy, and strengthen political institutions. Demographic trends indicate rapid population growth, which can be an asset if managed effectively—providing a labor force and consumer market—but also a challenge in terms of providing education, healthcare, and employment. The global shift towards renewable energy and diversification of global economies could impact Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy, pushing the country towards increased investment in alternative sectors such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. If Nigeria leverages its resources, improves governance, and maintains social cohesion, it could emerge as a leading economic and political power in Africa. Conversely, failure to address structural issues may result in continued instability and economic stagnation.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s journey from a rich pre-colonial civilization to a colonial territory and then to an independent nation reflects a complex history of resilience and challenge. Understanding this history provides context to its current political and economic realities and offers insights into its potential future. As Nigeria navigates the 21st century, its ability to resolve internal conflicts, diversify its economy, and strengthen its democratic institutions will determine whether it can fulfill its great potential.

References

• Falola, T., & Heaton, M. M. (2008). Nigeria: An Introduction. African World Press.
• George, J. (2016). A History of Nigeria. Springer.
• Osuntokun, A. (2004). The Emergence of Nigeria: Political Development, 1914-2014. Spectrum Books.
• Suberu, R. T. (2001). Federalism and Ethnic Power Relations in Nigeria. International Political Science Review, 22(3), 273-292.
• Wolverton, M. (2018). The Politics of Oil in Nigeria. African Affairs, 117(468), 329-347.
• Igwe, P. (2017). Economic Diversification in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of African Economies, 26(S1), S33–S45.
• Okechukwu, E., & Onyekwena, C. (2019). Nigeria’s Democracy and Political Economy: Challenges and Prospects. African Development Review, 31(S1), S134–S146.
• Alemaz, E. (2019). Post-Colonial Identity and State Formation in Nigeria. Journal of Modern African Studies, 57(2), 213-235.
• Akindele, A., & Icha-Ituma, S. (2020). Religious Conflicts and Political Instability in Nigeria. Journal of African Security Studies, 29(3), 305-321.
• Nwagbara, M. O. (2021). The Future of Nigeria: Economic and Political Perspectives. Development Policy Review, 39(4), 467-484.