Discussion Review

I think that our group's discussion went very well.  We were able to dive into topics that we originally thought were not nearly as clear, or practical as we thought.  I have a few questions left, such as the role of Leopold's family, and the role of that in his choices.  I am also anxious to find out the role of King Leopold's Ghost as the story develops. 

KLP 1-32 Post Reading

I think that this story focuses too much on making white people look like the criminals.  There have been cases in all of history where every race of people has made mistakes, and caused deaths to another cultures.  I do believe that the story is interesting, and will link with what we are learning in class, as I have already seen many of the different reasons for imperialism taking place in the story thus far.  Lastly, I anticipate more action will build as the story continues.

Questions:
1.  Will other cultures race to imperialize the culture that they are working on now?  Will this create a war?

2.  Will there be many different "conquests" that occur throughout the story that exemplify the different reasons for imperialism?  Ex) Religion, desire for land, desire for change, etc.  

End of Class Post

I learned that there many different reasons than I had originally though that people would colonize an area.  For example, population overflow and traveling for leisure.  I received a refresher course on New vs. Old imperialism.  I also learned what the terms "protectorate" and "sphere of influence" mean.  I am interested in learning more about the Berlin Conference, and the particular reasons why each country colonized a different area.