Research Paper – Development of Colonized or Imperialized Country or Region Through to the Late 1900s

Your goal for this research project is to analyze the changes of developing nations from late 1700s, during the peak of
colonialism and imperialism, to the late 1900s in the aftermath of World War I, World II, and the Cold War. You can
choose either a specific region such as the Pacific Islands or Southern Africa (your project will then be referencing
numerous countries) or you can narrow your research to a specific country to analyze. A developing nation during this
time period is essentially any non-European, non-American, or non-East Asian (China and Japan) country. Your research
project should begin around the time the region/country was colonized or controlled (via imperialism) and end when they
gained complete independence from their colonizer. Depending on what you’re researching, this complete independence
might come after World War I, World War II, or the Cold War.
Starter Resources:
 Source 1:
o https://web.cocc.edu/cagatucci/classes/hum211/timelines/htimeline3.htm
 Source 2:
o https://library.brown.edu/create/modernlatinamerica/chapters/chapter-2-the-colonial￾foundations/chapter-2-timeline/
Paper Requirements:
Your 2-3-page research project should address the following key topics:
1) Introduction – Specify the country or region you’re researching and the time period your research project will
encompass. You should give basic geographic information in addition to adding why developed countries were
first interested in gaining a foothold in the country or region. This could be because of natural resources such as
spices or gold as well as its location in a key strategic point for trade or military expansion. Include a brief
overview of the events that led to the country or region succumbing to foreign control.
2) Country/Region Under Rule – How was life for the native and foreign population under the control of the
colonial or imperial power? What social dynamics emerged between these two groups and were there any failed
attempts at expelling foreign control from the region or country? This section should include notable events,
people, etc.
3) Journey to Independence – How long had the region or country been under foreign control? Include specific
details about the leadup to the pivotal event(s) that led to full independence such as persons of interest, political
situations, organization, aid from other countries, etc. What were some of the big changes that occurred after
gaining full independence? Create an argument for whether you think life is better or worse after gaining full independence.