(a) What is proto-Nationalism? (b). Identify four features of proto-nationalism.

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of proto-nationalism

Proto-nationalism refers to the earliest, pre-political phase of nationalist feeling in colonial West Africa, roughly before the First World War. It was the mild, moderate agitation by an educated elite who did not demand independence or the overthrow of colonial rule, but only sought reforms, fair treatment, greater African participation in the colonial administration, and the protection of African rights within the colonial system.

(b) Four features of proto-nationalism

1. It was moderate and loyalist: Its leaders accepted colonial rule and only asked for reforms, not for self-government or independence.
2. It was elitist: It was led by a small group of educated professionals (lawyers, doctors, clergy, journalists) and did not involve the ordinary masses.
3. It was reformist in method: It used peaceful, constitutional means such as petitions, newspapers, delegations and resolutions rather than mass action or violence.
4. It was largely urban and cultural: It was centred in the coastal towns and concerned with cultural pride, protection of land and defence of African rights rather than mass mobilisation.