History

Comparison and Contrast

The process of imperialism by the European powers in the late 19th century paved the way for the development and growth of these societies during that time. For the British and French government, the idea of an expansionist policy corresponds to different themes and agendas that stimulate their national interests and desire to address the changes brought about by industrialization. Seeing this, the British and French Imperialism in Africa illustrates similarities and differences in the application and scope of its political, economic, and social interests.

Analyzing French and British interests in the political aspect, it can be seen that the two powers share a common goal of expanding their control and territories outside Europe. Given the increasing competition between these two nations, it is essential that they acquire relative amount of territories in order to justify their superiority over other civilizations. For the part of the British, it can be seen that the overall political motive was to restore its hegemonic control of the world and showcase its superiority among its European counterparts (Baldwin, 2007).

On the other hand, the French sees the expansion towards Africa as an attempt to consolidate and uplift its status within the European community after the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. The directive of looking towards Africa (Western Africa) was to consolidate its efforts in developing its influence within the region and explore its capacity to be at par with Great Britain (University of Pennsylvania, 2006).

Analyzing French and British interests economically, it can be seen that these two nations correspondingly share common objectives  seek out natural resources. Given the information about the abundance of the African economy to sustain industrialization efforts, both France and Britain sought to take advantage of these aspects and use them towards their own benefits (Fonseca, 2007). In addition, the abundance of resources within this region also paved the way for these two economies to recognize the capacity to sustain and create a huge market within these territories. Such ability opened up new trade routes which furthered new ways to earn money for their economies accordingly (University of Pennsylvania, 2006).

Their differences however revolved around how the British and French treat these resources together. For the part of Britain, they only sought to exhaust resources as much as possible (including slaves) and gain profit from any endeavor (Baldwin, 2007). On the other hand, France consolidated on their colonies and used them through time to earn income and resources (Fonesca, 2007). These then were used to sustain their economies and armies in congruent to the current trends of industrialization and development during that period.

In the social realm, it can be seen that there are striking differences with the way the British and the French handled their imperialist policies. The French exhibited harsh and brutal policies among its colonies, often subjecting them to hard work and labor (University of Pennsylvania, 2006). At the same time, it can be seen that they resented the assimilation policy among Africans and did not see them as their equals. For the part of the British, their policies were more relaxed other than during times of rebellion or nationalist tendencies. Since their actions are motivated by gaining most in the process, they provided their morals and values to Africans and colonies they control (Baldwin, 2007).

To conclude, British and French imperialism showcased similarities and differences in their exploits in Africa. These are stimulated by the interplay of interests as it applies to their political, social, and economic needs during the period. These ideas were then used as motivations to further and pursue an expansionist policy in the region and benefit from the process of exhausting resources and cultivating their capacity to implement their control and power. Through these, they were able to sustain their industrialization policies and address their corresponding needs.