Why is Africa called the Dark Continent?

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Why is Africa called the Dark Continent?

Africa was formerly called as Dark Continent. Others thought it was because of the dark complexion of the people living in it. Others explained that Europeans who are famous as explorer considered the continent as mysterious. Africa is a continent which was not influenced much by modern civilization that’s why its culture and way of living was described as backwards.

The truth about Africa as Dark Continent can be explained in their history. In was in 1400’s when Europeans accepted slaves from Congo, one of the countries in Africa. Sine Europeans were known to be powerful, the African have no choice but to render their services as slaves. There was a sugar plantation in West Africa which was managed by Portuguese traders. Because of the growth of the plantations, more slaves were needed from Africa. These slaves were traded, captured, and kidnapped.

Africa did not prosper because of slavery and poverty. The colonization of Western countries also added to the famine and sickness felt by African people. As Europe’s economy enjoyed prosperity, Africa’s economy was a slump. The torment and distress that made Africa suffer for centuries were the reasons why it was called as Dark Continent.

After centuries of struggles from war, hunger, and scarcity, Africa tried to survive. When imperialism was introduced, there were signs of progress. But then the inequality of the distribution of resources caused again more problems for Africa. Chaos and boundaries always prevent the Dark Continent to prosper. The imperialists government had been so powerful that
Even the natural resources were not used up to the potentials. There was scarcity because the resources were depleted. The colonial rule exploited what Africa has.

Now, Africa is starting to embrace a healthy economy. With independence and political stability, there is still hope for Africa. What has been known as the Dark Continent is slowly becoming the most promising land in the world.

Author: shiela

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