Western Studies

 

New Imperialism and Decolonization

Assignment
The theme of this project is "new imperialism" and decolonization. You and your assigned partner will write a paper divided into two parts:
Part I: Why did the region become a colony and how did colonialism affect life there?
Part II: The legacy of colonization (decolonization process and problems, status today)

Each part should be 2-3 pages and you should include parenthetical citations and a bibliography.

You must use the textbook and a minimum of three outside resources (at least one has to be a book other than an encyclopedia). We will spend three class days in the library for you to find resources.

 

Grade Breakdown (115 Points)
How you use your class time: 10 Points
Homework check: 10 Points
The Essay: 80 Points (You both receive the same grade)
Similarities and Differences and Follow-up Discussion: 15 Points

Regions:

Southeast Asia
The Philippines
Dutch East Indies
French Indochina
Singapore
 Africa
West Africa
Egypt
South Africa
Central Africa

 

Latin America
Hispaniola (Haiti)
South America
Central America

 


WORK SCHEDULE

Day One
You will meet with your partner and rank your top three regions and while I work out who has what region, you will read a handout on imperialism and answer questions. Once you have been assigned a region, you and your partner will work on a strategy for research.

HOMEWORK: Read and take notes on 729-730 and the section in your textbook about your region. Work on compiling more information. I will be checking your notes!

 

Day Two
We will meet in the library and this will be your first day to find information on your region. Keep in touch with your partner to make sure that he/she is being responsible.

HOMEWORK: Take notes on your information and begin to outline an essay.

 

Day Three
You will have the option to work on research in the library or on compiling and editing your notes that you have collected. You may also choose to meet with your partner to discuss your status.

HOMEWORK: Since you have a weekend, take advantage of the extra time and work on your paper and discussion notes for class. I will be checking your progress.

 

Day Four
We will meet in the classroom. This class will be dedicated to small group discussion with the people in your larger region. You will be responsible for sharing the similarities and differences that existed under colonialism and after decolonization. One person in your group will take notes and a copy of your region's similarities and differences will be due by the end of class.

HOMEWORK: Rough Draft of your paper is due the next class.

 

Day Five
I will be checking to make sure that you have completed a rough draft. The rest of class will be dedicated to general discussion based on what you have learned about your region. Everyone must talk and you will be graded on your participation.

HOMEWORK: Final Draft of paper is due next class. (Thursday, January 25, 2001)