Ch. 18

The maps on pages 886-887 show just how much of the world was carved up by the Europeans. The impact of colonialism can be seen today in Africa. Alot of people in Africa speak French and English.  When you look at the maps you can see why. Few countries were able to resist, and had European languages and customs forced upon them. It is sad that the Europeans did not do more to develop the African continent. India was able to leave colonialism with some advantages, such as a unified nation (with the exception of Pakistan and Bangladesh), democracy, and a strong legal system. Africa however was not left with these advantages. Similarly to the Middle East countries were drawn up to benefit the Europeans, and not to address ethnic/tribal differences, geography, or resources. Asia was not carved up as badly, since they had a long history of strong cultural identities.