Which of the following is a feature of the French policy of Association?

Analyze the question: The question asks about a feature of the French colonial policy of Association, which was applied in French West Africa (including Senegal, Dahomey, Guinea, etc.).

Explain the concept: France had two main colonial policies:

1. Assimilation: The aim was to turn Africans into "Frenchmen" through French language, culture, and law. Qualified Africans could become French citizens (this is the policy associated with the four communes of Senegal).
2. Association: France later realized assimilation was impractical and costly. Association accepted that Africans were culturally different and could keep their own institutions. Under it: • Africans were not expected to become French citizens. • Traditional rulers (chiefs) were retained and used as intermediaries in administration, though under French control. • Local customs and institutions were respected so long as they did not conflict with French interests. • Colonial subjects were governed under the indigénat code rather than being given French citizenship.

Step-by-step evaluation of the options:

• A. Elevation of the position of the chiefs: Association made use of the chiefs and respected African institutions, so chiefs were retained and given a role in administration.
• B. French citizenship to subjects: This is a feature of Assimilation, not Association.
• C. Scholarships to needy students: This is not a defining feature of either policy.
• D. Language barrier and race: These are not features of the policy. They were not its objectives.

Note of nuance: In practice, French chiefs in Association were often reduced to salaried agents of the French, so "elevation" is best understood as recognizing and retaining chiefs rather than giving them real independent power.

Answer: A. Elevation of the position of the chiefs

Exam tip: Remember the contrast:

• Assimilation = "Same": make Africans French, with citizenship, language, and culture.
• Association = "Allied/Apart": keep African institutions and chiefs, with no citizenship.

If an option mentions citizenship, think Assimilation. If it mentions chiefs or preserving local institutions, think Association.