The Berlin Conference (or "Congo Conference") of 1884–85 made rules for European colonization and trade in Africa. It was called for by Portugal and organized by Otto von Bismarck. The conference met during the Scramble for Africa, a time with more colonial activity by European powers. Africans were not invited. It ended most existing forms of African autonomy and self-governance, assuring that the European powers would not have to fight among themselves for dominance.
Berlin Conference
Questions and Answers
Q: What is the Berlin Conference?
A: The Berlin Conference was a meeting held in 1884-85 to establish rules for European colonization and trade in Africa.
Q: Who called for the Berlin Conference?
A: Portugal called for the Berlin Conference.
Q: Who organized the Berlin Conference?
A: The Berlin Conference was organized by Otto von Bismarck.
Q: When did the Berlin Conference take place?
A: The Berlin Conference took place in 1884-85.
Q: Were Africans invited to the Berlin Conference?
A: No, Africans were not invited to the Berlin Conference.
Q: What effect did the Berlin Conference have on African autonomy and self-governance?
A: The Berlin Conference ended most existing forms of African autonomy and self-governance, putting African nations under European control.
Q: Why was the Berlin Conference called during the Scramble for Africa?
A: The Berlin Conference was called during the Scramble for Africa, a time of increased colonial activity by European powers, to establish rules and avoid conflict between European nations over Africa.