The Innovation Civilization Podcast

#20 - Dr. Padraig Carmody - The New Scramble For Africa: The Economic History and Future Development of the Region

Dec 8, 2023
Dr. Padraig Carmody, a Trinity College professor and author on African economic development, shares insights from his research on the historical and contemporary 'scrambles' for Africa. Alongside Jon Cayzer, a seasoned British civil servant, they discuss the significant impacts of colonial legacies on modern African economies. The conversation includes China's growing influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, the challenges faced by landlocked nations, and the potential for Africa to reshape global economic dynamics. They also emphasize the importance of community-driven approaches to future development.
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INSIGHT

China's New Scramble for Africa

  • The new scramble for Africa is driven by China's rising economic power and its demand for natural resources.
  • Africa was crucial for China, at times supplying a third of its oil imports, fueling rapid economic growth.
INSIGHT

European Motivations in First Scramble

  • European powers colonized Africa to secure resources and markets amidst economic depression and geopolitical rivalry.
  • Technological advances and disruptions like the American Civil War catalyzed the colonial scramble.
INSIGHT

Colonial Borders' Lasting Impact

  • The Berlin Conference imposed arbitrary borders that divided and combined ethnic groups, fostering conflict and weak national identity.
  • These colonial borders and policies have long-lasting political and economic impacts on African states.
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