Decolonization and its aftermath have led to a number of challenges and opportunities for many nations that were previously parts of Western formal or informal empire. Many former colonies were split into more than one new country, and often rivalries developed as a result. For your final paper, you will choose two countries that were covered in class, and evaluate the impact of imperialism, decolonization, and globalization in a comparative essay.
Choose two countries from the following list of countries studied in this class, or alternatively, choose one of these countries and gain instructor approval for a second country to study:
India
Vietnam
Algeria
Kenya
Cuba
Jamaica
For your final paper, write a 7 to 10 page comparative essay that includes the following:
An introduction with a distinct thesis that serves as the main idea of your paper
A well-organized argument that does the following:
Compares and contrasts the imperial history of the two nations, including circumstances leading to independence. For Cuba and Algeria, please make sure to note their “special” circumstances as discussed in the course.
Assesses the development of domestic independence movements and the political and economic ideologies that predominated these independence movements. Did these movements effectively meet the needs of their people?
Analyzes the challenges and opportunities for these nations after independence. What was the role of the Cold War? What impact has globalization had on each?
Evaluates the lasting impact of Western imperialism on each country
A conclusion which sums your argument and restates your thesis
