A New Perspective on Border Formation
Contrary to the belief in arbitrary border delineation, evidence suggests that Europeans employed a more methodical approach, using "focal points" such as precolonial states and major water bodies to guide the demarcation process. These features served not only as natural demarcations but also as vital considerations in territorial negotiations and disputes. Historical political frontiers, reflecting the boundaries of precolonial entities, and major water bodies like rivers and lakes were central to determining the borders' placements. This approach indicates a recognition and, to some extent, an incorporation of pre-existing political and geographic realities into the colonial border-drawing process.
Figure 1a-d: The Evolution of the European Political Map of Africa adapted from Paine et al., 2024
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The first map (Figure 1a) shows the colonial borders in 1887. As of this date, the colonial map was still very much in its early stages. European powers had claimed a majority of the coastal territory (56% of the territory within 300 km of the coast) but had not yet ventured far inland. Only 22% of the territory further inland was claimed, and just 14% excluding the Congo Free State. - Africa circa 1895
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The second map (Figure 1b) depicts the colonial borders in 1895. Border formation began to pick up pace around this time. Between 1889 and 1894, numerous bilateral treaties were signed by the major powers. These agreements resulted in the allocation of territory across most of the African interior and the establishment of preliminary borders throughout parts of the interior. By 1895, Europeans had claimed 83% of Africa's coastal territory and 58% of the interior. - Africa circa 1902
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The third map (Figure 1c) shows the colonial borders in 1902. By this time, Europeans had claimed nearly the entire continent (90% of the interior territory). The political map of Africa was beginning to take shape, resembling its postcolonial form. However, the process of finalising the specific borders was still ongoing. - Arica circa 1960
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The fourth map (Figure 1d) depicts the colonial borders in 1960. The borders in place in 1960 had been through many revisions throughout the 20th century. Some of these revisions included changing straight lines to local features, adding new segments, or clarifying local features for previously ambiguous borders.
Figure 1a-d: The Evolution of the European Political Map of Africa adapted from Paine et al., 2024
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