West and Central Africa: History and Its Influence, Part 2

Students explore the growing nationalist and independence movements that developed in West and Central Africa during the twentieth century. They learn about the West and Central African countries that gained independence in 1960, and they individually research the specific progression of independence in one of those countries. Finally, students write a diary entry imagining what it might have been like to be a middle school student at the time of their country's independence.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Overview

In this experience, students trace how resistance to colonial rule developed into nationalist and independence movements across West and Central Africa during the twentieth century. They examine the wave of independence around 1960, then research one country to analyze the people, events, and turning points that shaped its path to independence. Finally, students use evidence from across the experience to explain how independence movements developed over time and why different countries followed different paths.

Objective:

Describe and evaluate nationalist and independence movements in West and Central Africa

By the late 1800s, European powers controlled most of Africa. Colonial governments took political authority away from African rulers and communities and reshaped economies, borders, and systems of government.

Colonial rule, however, was never simply accepted by everyone. People resisted in different ways and for different reasons. Some fought colonial armies. Others organized protests, demanded greater political rights, formed political movements, or called for complete independence.

Over time, the goals and methods of resistance changed. Events within Africa, two world wars, and independence movements in other parts of the world also influenced what African leaders and communities believed was possible.

In this experience, you will trace how resistance to colonial rule developed into nationalist and independence movements in West and Central Africa and investigate how different countries achieved independence.

Objective:

Describe and evaluate nationalist and independence movements in West and Central Africa

Black-and-white photograph of a crowd celebrating independence. A smiling man raised above the crowd holds a sign reading “Complete Independence 1961,” while people around him cheer and raise their hands.

Tanzanian independence leader Julius Nyerere celebrates with supporters while holding a sign calling for “Complete Independence” in 1961

Some people living under colonial rule demanded greater rights and a larger role in government. Others eventually demanded complete independence.

Why might a movement that begins by demanding greater rights eventually call for independence instead?

Post your answer

After students respond, invite several students to explain their reasoning.

Use the discussion to introduce an important distinction students will encounter in the next scene. Demanding greater rights or political representation within a colonial system is different from demanding an end to colonial rule itself. Students do not need to identify one reason that movements changed. Instead, encourage them to consider what might happen if demands for greater participation or equal treatment were repeatedly limited or rejected.

Possible follow-up questions include:

How is reform different from independence?
What might people hope to change without ending colonial rule?
What additional power would independence provide?
Why might political goals change over time?
Would every person opposing colonial rule necessarily want the same outcome?
What evidence would help us determine why independence movements became stronger?

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.