Reasons for the development of Legitimate Trade in the 19th century in West Africa

Study question

Account for the development of legitimate Trade in the 19th century in West Africa.

(Give the background, reasons for its development and conclusion)

Reasons for the development of legitimate Trade in the 19th century in West Africa

The development of legitimate trade in West Africa in products like cotton, palm oil, guns, textiles etc. during the 19th century was driven by several factors:

Economic Factors:

• Decline of the Slave Trade: The abolition of the transatlantic slave trade in 1807 created a need for alternative sources of income. Legitimate trade in agricultural products like palm oil, groundnuts, and rubber became a viable economic replacement.
• European Demand: European industrialization increased the demand for raw materials, which West Africa could supply. Products like palm oil were essential for lubricating machinery and producing soap and candles.
• West Africa was rich in natural resources especially agricultural products like cotton, palm oil and mineral like gold.
• Americans and Europeans desire to market their good: Europeans promoted legitimate trade in order to sell their industrial products.
• Accumulation excess capital in Europe: With excess capital Europeans looked other investment areas like West Africa which promoted legitimate trade.
• Introduction of formal currencies facilitated exchange of goods and service in the legitimate trade.

Social and Political Factors:

• Colonial Influence: European powers, particularly the British and French, encouraged the development of legitimate trade as a means to exert control and influence over West African societies.
• Missionary Activities: Missionaries promoted legitimate trade as a way to introduce Western economic practices and Christianity to the region.

Technological and Infrastructural Factors:

• Improved Transportation: The development of steamships and railways facilitated the transportation of goods from the interior to the coast, making legitimate trade more efficient.
• Market Expansion: The establishment of European trading companies and the expansion of market networks allowed for the wider distribution of West African products.

Environmental Factors:

• Agricultural Potential: The fertile lands of West Africa were well-suited for the cultivation of cash crops like palm oil and cocoa, which became major exports.

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Dr. Bbosa Science