(a) What is Nationalist Movement? (b) Highlight five effects of nationalist activities in British West Africa.

Answer Details

(a) Nationalist Movement

A nationalist movement is an organised, collective struggle by the indigenous people of a country to resist foreign or colonial rule and to secure political independence, self-government and control of their own affairs. In British West Africa it was expressed through political parties, the press, trade unions and pressure groups agitating against colonial domination.

(b) Five effects of nationalist activities in British West Africa

1. Attainment of independence: Sustained nationalist agitation compelled Britain to grant self-government and eventual independence to its West African colonies.
2. Constitutional reforms: Nationalist pressure produced successive constitutions that steadily increased African representation and participation in governance.
3. Growth of political parties: The movements gave birth to organised political parties that mobilised the masses and shaped politics after independence.
4. Awakening of political consciousness: Nationalism raised the political awareness of the people and encouraged a sense of unity and shared identity.
5. Development of education and the press: Nationalists spread education and founded newspapers that enlightened the populace and served as tools of the struggle.
6. Emergence of indigenous leaders: The struggle produced a class of African leaders who assumed control of government upon independence.