How Indigenous People RESISTED Imperial Expansion [AP World History Review—Unit 6 Topic 3]

Resistance to Imperialism: Understanding the Causes and Examples

Introduction to Anti-Colonial Resistance

• The discussion begins with a focus on the second wave of imperialism, emphasizing that resistance is a crucial aspect of this historical narrative.

• The speaker highlights two primary reasons for anti-colonial resistance: questioning political authority and rising nationalism.

Causes of Resistance Movements

Questioning Political Authority

• Enlightenment ideas, such as popular sovereignty and social contracts, influenced educated individuals in colonized territories to challenge imperial legitimacy.

• While Western education played a role in fostering dissent, many colonized peoples resisted without needing formal education.

Rise of Nationalism

• Nationalism emerged as a counterforce against imperial powers; imposed foreign cultures often sparked a desire for self-determination among colonized peoples.

• This growing sense of nationalism motivated various groups to resist colonial rule and strive for their own states.

Examples of Resistance Against Imperial Intrusion

Direct Armed Resistance

• One notable example is the 1857 rebellion in India aimed at ending British domination.

• The Asante War in West Africa exemplifies direct resistance; it was driven by the British attempts to conquer the Asante Kingdom for its gold resources.

The Asante War Details

• The golden stool symbolized cultural unity for the Asante people; British efforts to control it were met with fierce rebellion led by Queen Mother Yaa Asantewaa.

• Despite valiant efforts from the Assante warriors, superior British weaponry ultimately led to their defeat.

Creation of New States

• Indigenous responses included forming new states like the Cherokee Nation after U.S. expansion post-independence.

Cherokee Nation's Struggle

• Assimilation attempts by groups like the Cherokee did not prevent forced removal under acts like the Indian Removal Act of 1835.

• Ultimately, westward expansion marginalized indigenous authorities as territories were incorporated into new states.

Religious Inspiration Behind Rebellions

• [] (No specific timestamp provided yet for religious movements but mention made about them)

The Struggle of the Kosa People Against British Colonization

British Expansion and Its Impact on the Kosa Territory

• The British sought to expand their territory at the expense of the Kosa people, utilizing superior weaponry and communication technologies.

• This expansion led to significant territorial claims by the British, resulting in insufficient land for the Kosa's survival.

• Concurrently, many Kosa cattle succumbed to diseases potentially introduced by Europeans, exacerbating their plight.

The Religious Movement and Prophecy

• A religious movement emerged among the Kosa around mid-century, fueled by a prophecy promising renewal through sacrifice.

• According to this prophecy, slaughtering their cattle would lead to healthier replacements and drive out European intruders.