Colonialism And The Transformation Of African Customs In A Global System

Abstract

Colonialism in Africa and its influences on the peoples of Africa remains potent and persistent since its official beginning after the Berlin Conference of 1885 up till 1960 when it officially ended. These influences and effects on the African customs and culture are far-reaching, and have resulted to an almost complete transformation of the lives of the peoples Africa. Against this background, the study examines the fundamental transformation which the African society and customs have undergone overtime using the Igbo as a case study. The study discusses the Igbo people before 1885 and as well their colonial conquest as a result of the various British expeditions. The study highlights the establishment of colonial rule and the spread of Christianity, the competition among the early missionaries and the establishment of missionary schools in Igbo land as a vehicle of transformation of the customs, culture and traditions of the people. The paper x-rays the various aspects of the Igbo customs and traditions that underwent such changes during the period of our study and how such changes have endured even up to the post colonial era. The paper concludes that colonialism and its antecedents have since then been a major catalyst in the lives of the peoples of Africa.