The Impact of Christianity on European Colonization and African Resistance, 1800-1960

Olscamp 101

This paper explores how Christianity was used as a justification for European colonization of Africa, and how Africans were able to use Christianity as a tool for resistance against colonial rule. Keeping in mind European motives and/or justifications for colonization, this study examines the contradictions within Christianity itself and how Africans were able to use the European message of Christianity to resist colonization and build up strong spirit of nationalism. While invading and taking Africa and its vast resources, Europeans used Christian creeds to pacify Africans to make them obedient to their activities. Christianity soon became a double-edged sword. This paper fits into the theme of the conference because Christianity was a catalyst for both European colonization and African resistance against colonial rule.