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.

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.

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

Africa Current Event 3

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7735159.stm

Who: The people of the DR Congo and the withdrawl troops.
What:Two fronts have been withdrawn to create humanitarian corridors.
When:Reported Tuesday 18th
Where:The DR Congo
Why:They want to get humanitarian aid through.
How:They are going through the jungle in white armoured cars firing warning signals.

The news is very relevant, not something from 'a while ago'. And these articles are related to whats happening with the civil war in the DR Congo.

It seems like the government is actually with the rebels in this. Obviously, if someone comes into the jungle in big cars-armed asking you to come fight, no-ones going to do it. The rebels wont come [duh].

Africa Current Event 2

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7731937.stm

Who:The DR Congo
What:Peace process with the DR Congo govt.
When:Sunday Nov 16
Where:DR Congo
Why:250,000 people have been made homeless by the fighting between rebels and Congolese government troops.
Gen Nkunda acknowledged that his forces had suffered heavy losses.
How: The violence and fighting happening there, many troops have been lost.

One reason that makes this article 'news' is because its very relevant. This article was published on November 16th and this is something people will want to know about quickly.
There is also 'progress' involved. The progression in the country of the DR Congo. They have stopped all the fighting there, and as said Gen Nkunda is said to be supporting the peace process. Many people have been left homeless and a great number of people have also died. This is something good happening in the world, and is a progression for the DR Congo.