Cecil Rhodes

Definition

Cecil Rhodes was a British imperialist, businessman, and politician who played a significant role in the expansion of the British Empire in Southern Africa during the late 19th century. He is best known for his vision of creating a continuous belt of British territories from Cape to Cairo, which symbolized the height of European colonization and its accompanying ideologies such as imperialism and racism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cecil Rhodes was born in 1853 in England and moved to South Africa as a teenager, where he initially sought to make his fortune in diamond mining.
2. Rhodes was a key figure in the establishment of the Cape Colony and later played an influential role in the creation of Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia).
3. His policies and actions were rooted in a belief in Anglo-Saxon superiority, leading to widespread displacement and oppression of indigenous populations.
4. Rhodes's legacy is controversial; while he contributed to economic development in the region, his actions also led to significant social injustices and conflicts.
5. The Rhodes Scholarship, established in his will, remains one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs, albeit amid debates about its association with colonialism.

Review Questions

• How did Cecil Rhodes' vision for Southern Africa reflect the broader themes of European colonization during his time?
  • Cecil Rhodes' vision for Southern Africa, aimed at creating a British-dominated corridor from Cape to Cairo, exemplified the broader themes of European colonization such as expansionism and racial superiority. His ambition illustrated the mindset of many colonial powers at the time, believing they had both a right and a duty to civilize and control other regions. This perspective not only justified territorial conquests but also rationalized the subjugation of indigenous populations under the guise of progress and civilization.
• Discuss the economic impact of Cecil Rhodes' enterprises on Southern Africa, particularly through his involvement with De Beers.
  • Cecil Rhodes' enterprises, particularly through De Beers, had a profound economic impact on Southern Africa by monopolizing diamond production and significantly influencing local economies. The diamond rush transformed regions into centers of wealth generation but also fostered exploitative labor practices among indigenous workers. Rhodes' approach to resource extraction laid down frameworks that prioritized profit over social equity, contributing to economic disparities that persisted long after colonial rule ended.
• Evaluate how Cecil Rhodes' legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions about colonialism and race in Southern Africa.
  • Cecil Rhodes' legacy continues to spark debates about colonialism and race in Southern Africa today. His establishment of policies that favored white settlers has left a lasting impact on social structures, land ownership, and economic inequalities that are still felt. Contemporary discussions often revolve around reconciling his contributions to infrastructure and education against the backdrop of oppression faced by indigenous populations. As societies grapple with this complex legacy, it raises questions about how best to acknowledge historical injustices while fostering inclusive progress moving forward.

Related terms

Imperialism: The policy or ideology of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

De Beers: A company co-founded by Rhodes that became a dominant force in the diamond industry, significantly influencing the economy of Southern Africa.

British South Africa Company: A company founded by Rhodes that was instrumental in the colonization of Zimbabwe and Zambia, promoting British settlement and resource extraction in these regions.