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Thursday, December 11, 2008

Central Africa Today

The civil war that took place, damaged the countries of Central Africa today. Most of the countries in the central part of Africa are poor, due to its loss of wealth and poor economies. The countries, however, are trying to recover, but not with much success. Health issues like diseases lashing around the place, environmental problems, war and governmental issues are not making the situation easier. Health problems like Malaria, HIV/AIDS and other diseases are all over Africa, and are hard to treat because many people dont have access to the medication. Economically, most of the jobs in Central Africa are agricultural ones, but of course, the pay isnt enough to support a family.
If Central Africa had a strong economy, this could all change. With a little more effort put into jobs, education and infrastructure, Central Africa could rise today.

History and Culture of Central Africa

Around 2000 years ago, many people migrated from West Africa to Central Africa. central Africa is isolated from the other countries. People who lived there just saw people from their own area.
There were kingdoms created though, and the most important one was the Kongo Kingdom. They started trade routes, which helped the Central Part of Africa gain wealth. The trade routes did also bring in some new technology. Ivory was another thing that was well traded, and because the Europeans wanted it so much, it helped Central Africa's wealth. Most of central Africans speak either French, English or Portuguese because these were the countries that took over parts of Central Africa, the language caught on. The presence of these European colonies did affect the history and culture of Central Africa today.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Scramble for Africa

Absent

Footprint Cartoon Analysis


The main visual elements of this cartoon is the black Africa, and the big white foot. The issue is about the Europeans taking control over different parts of Africa. I think the cartoonist thinks that what the Europeans did in their quest to take over Africa was wrong. I think that's why he also portrayed the white foot so big, and also that it takes over most of the Africa because literally, most of Africa was dominated; but not all. I think the main technique the author used was the color contrast, and also the size. Also, when you look at the picture, and see the big white foot, you think that the Africans were 'stepped' on, which pretty much means that they weren't that important to the Europeans and just kicked them around.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Net Affect of Imperialism

Bad:

  • Many people were taken as slaves, separated from families.
  • A great number of people died.
  • They had to work long grueling hours.
  • They were beaten harshly, had big wounds.
  • They were expected to work even if they were in a near-death condition.
Good:
  • Europeans tried to civilize the Africans
  • Provided shelter
  • Introduced some new technology
  • Provided health care
  • Tried to provide education