Lecture Notes: Decolonization and its Aftermath

Introduction

• Decolonization created approximately 80 new states in the second half of the 20th century.
• Colonial boundaries were often drawn in favor of imperial powers, not the local populations.
• Post-independence, many states inherited these boundaries, causing conflicts.

Example 1: Partition of India (1947)

• India gained independence through negotiation, not armed conflict.
• British and Gandhi advocated for a united India; Muslim League wanted a separate state (Pakistan).
• Partition resulted in:
  • India (Hindu-majority)
  • Pakistan (Muslim-majority)
• Significant violence and migration ensued:
  • 12 million people migrated.
  • Over half a million died.
  • Conflict over Kashmir:
    • Majority Muslim population; Hindu ruler.
    • India and Pakistan both claimed Kashmir; no resolution.
    • Ongoing conflict involving China as well.

Example 2: Creation of Israel (1948)

• Prior to WWI, Palestine was part of the Ottoman Empire (Muslim-majority).
• Post-WWI, Britain controlled Palestine; Zionism advocated for a Jewish homeland.
• Balfour Declaration supported Jewish migration to Palestine.
• Post-WWII UN partitioned Palestine:
  • Jewish state (Israel)
  • Arab Muslim state
• Immediate conflict ensued:
  • Israel declared independence in 1948.
  • Arab states supported Palestinians in conflict.
  • Ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Economic Development of New States

• Governments often directed economic development post-independence.

Egypt

• Leader: Gamal Abdel Nasser (non-aligned movement).
• Nationalized Suez Canal (1956).
• Built Aswan High Dam (1970).
• Introduced social welfare reforms: free schooling and healthcare.

India

• Leader: Indira Gandhi (first female Prime Minister, 1966).
• Economic challenges: conflict with Pakistan, famines.
• Socialist 5-year plans to control economy.
• Implemented Green Revolution (more in Unit 9).
• Nationalized key industries, banks; increased taxes on wealthy.
• Reduced inflation and increased production.

Migration to Metropoles

• Post-colonial migration to former imperial centers (metropoles).
• Examples:
  • South Asians to Great Britain.
  • Algerians to France.
  • Filipinos to the USA.
• These migrations:
  • Transformed societies into multi-ethnic.
  • Maintained cultural and economic ties.

Conclusion

• Decolonization set the stage for ongoing conflicts and migrations.
• Economic and social policies varied across newly independent states.
• Cultural and economic connections persisted through migration.