Reasons why African lost their trade in the Delta states in the 2nd half of the 19th century

Study question

Why did Africans lose control of their trade in the Niger Delta states in the 2nd half of the 19th century.

(Indicate that in the 1st half of 19th century Africa controlled in Niger Delta states; show the type of trade commodities involved; give the reasons for the loss of the trade in the Niger Delta states; conclusion)

Reasons why African lost their trade in the Delta states in the 2nd half of the 19th century

The loss of trade in the Delta states during the second half of the 19th century was influenced by several factors:

European Colonization:

• Political Control: The establishment of European colonial rule, particularly the British Oil Rivers Protectorate in 1885, undermined the political independence of the Delta states. This led to the loss of control over trade by local rulers.
• Colonial Policies: European policies often favored direct control over trade, sidelining traditional African middlemen and traders.

Economic Factors:

• Shift to Legitimate Trade: The transition from the slave trade to legitimate trade in agricultural products like palm oil reduced the economic power of traditional African traders who had previously dominated the slave trade.
• Competition: European traders established direct contacts with producers, bypassing the traditional middlemen and reducing their influence and profits.
• Introduction of new currency: many Africans were  cheated because they were used to barter trade
• Invention of quinine which enabled the Europeans to penetrate into Interior of Africa.
• The introduction of steamship on the R. Niger which eliminated the middle man ship position of African, e.g. the Aro and Abol people of Ibo socieity.

Social and Cultural Changes:

• Disruption of Traditional Structures: The imposition of colonial rule disrupted traditional social and economic structures, leading to a decline in the influence of local leaders and traders.
• Introduction of New Goods: The influx of European goods and the introduction of new economic practices altered local economies and trade patterns.

Resistance and Adaptation:

• Resistance to Colonial Rule: Some Delta states resisted European control, but over time, they were unable to maintain their autonomy and trade dominance.
• Adaptation: While some traditional traders adapted to the new economic environment, others struggled to compete with European traders and lost their economic influence.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science