Colonial history and legacy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
I can describe the impact of colonial rule on the DRC and its lasting effects.
- Year 8
Colonial history and legacy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
I can describe the impact of colonial rule on the DRC and its lasting effects.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The DRC was a former Belgian colony and has had multiple names over time including the Belgian Congo and Zaire.
- King Leopold II exploited the country's natural resources and people, causing millions of deaths.
- After independence in 1960, the DRC faced political instability and conflict.
- Colonial borders and exploitation still affect the DRC today.
Keywords
Colony - a country or area that is controlled by another country and has people living there from the controlling country
Legacy - something handed down or passed on from an earlier generation
Natural resources - resources that come from Earth without human influence and can be used for human needs
Border - the dividing lines between two countries
To exploit - to use something for personal benefit
Common misconception
That countries are always the same shape and size, with the same borders and the same name throughout their history and that these aspects will never change.
History has shown that in many countries borders move, countries expand or shrink and the name of any given country is not fixed and permanent. These things are often the result of conflict or warfare which causes significant political change.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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