Which of these factors motivated colonialism in Africa?

1. Analyze the question The question asks for the main factor that motivated European colonialism in Africa. This is about the driving force, not the justifications Europeans gave afterward.

2. Explain the concept European powers (Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal) partitioned Africa after the Berlin Conference of 1884-85. The motives are usually grouped as:

• Economic: The Industrial Revolution created a need for raw materials (palm oil, cotton, rubber, minerals), markets for finished goods, and areas to invest surplus capital.
• Political: National prestige and competition among European powers.
• Social/humanitarian: Ending the slave trade and spreading Christianity and "civilization." These were largely used as justifications.

3. Step-by-step solution

• A. Scientific superiority: Europe did have better technology, such as the Maxim gun and quinine. But this made colonization possible. It was not the motive.
• B. Humanitarianism: Anti-slavery and missionary work were used to justify colonialism, but they were secondary and often a cover for other aims.
• C. Economic interest: This was the primary driver. The need for raw materials, markets, and investment outlets pushed the European powers into the "Scramble for Africa."
• D. Cultural superiority: This was an ideology used to justify rule (the "civilizing mission"). It was not the main motivation.

4. Answer The correct option is C. Economic interest.

5. Exam tip Separate motives (why they came: economic first) from means (how they succeeded: technology, medicine, weapons) and justifications (what they claimed: humanitarianism, civilizing mission). JAMB often tests this distinction. Remember "the 3 Gs": Gold (economic), God (religion), Glory (political prestige). Economic is usually the strongest.