Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Research Paper: The Legacy of Colonialism in Africa”

In this activity, students will write a research paper examining The Legacy of Colonialism in a former African colony.

During the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, many European leaders divided up the continent of Africa for their gain. This process was called the “Scramble for Africa,” which resulted in the division, partition, and subsequent exploitation of African kingdoms, peoples, and territories. Salih’s novel is written in the years after the end of colonization in Africa when many colonies, including Sudan, proclaimed their independence at the end of WWII. In this activity, you will select another African country other than Sudan and write a research paper on the effect of colonialism on its development as a newly independent country in the postcolonial era.

Consider the following questions as you conduct your research:

• When did this country become independent? How did it gain its independence? Who was its colonizer?
• What were some significant challenges facing this country in its postcolonial era?
• What policies, laws, acts, etc., were passed in the years after independence to help support its growth?
• Although independent, did this country align itself with any world power for support? If so, which country?
• Is the legacy of colonialism still left on the nation? If so, how?