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The labours which we are about to undertake to regulate and develop the commercial relations of our countrymen with that Continent, render a service alike to the cause of peace and humanity.” ~ Otto von Bismarck

The year is 1884. Heeding the summons of his Excellency, Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, 14 major powers solemnly converge in Berlin, united in their crusade to tame the fiery African spirit. Here the chancelleries of Europe stir once more – not with the clatter of sabres, but in the ruthless negotiation, regulation, and formalisation of their dominion over Africa to fulfil their insatiable imperialist desires.

Hail to Commerce, our noble enterprise transmuting unregulated regions into thriving economies, declaring millenia-old sovereignties ‘terra nullius’ under the guiding hand of European industry. Hail to Christianity, our sacrosanct duty compelling us to expel the veil of darkness of heathen shores, spreading the light of the Gospel to those dwelling in ignorance. Hail to Civilisation, our divine mandate to uplift benighted populations, cultivating order from our generous stewardship.

May posterity reflect the glorious, albeit divisive spectre of imperialism, at the ‘necessary’ cost of appropriating absent consideration by countless African civilisations. 

Welcome to the Great Partitioning.

Welcome to the Scramble for Africa. 

Welcome to the Berlin Conference.