Africa and the Cold War DBQ

Evaluate the extent to which African countries were able to

conduct independent policies during the Cold War period.

Organizer
1. What time period is the question asking you to cover?
Its asking to cover the Cold War period. The Cold War lasted from approximately 1947 to 1991.

2. Is the question asking you to compare (COMPARISON), evaluate cause and effect
(CAUSATION), or show you how things have changed or remained the same (CONTINUITY
AND CHANGE OVER TIME)?
The question is asking you to evaluate the extent to which African countries were able to conduct independent
policies during the Cold War period. Therefore, it is asking you to analyze and asses the level of independence
of African countries during the Cold War period.

3. What is the question asking you to evaluate the extent of?

The question is asking to evaluate the extent to which African countries were able to conduct independent
policies during the Cold War period.

4. What is the historical context for this question? What is the Cold War? What was going on in
Africa at the same time?
3-4 Sentences are needed!!!!
The cold war was a period of political and military tension between the United States and the Soviet union
from the end of WWII until the early 1990s. Africa was a battleground for the tw superpowers, as they sought
to gain influence and control over the continent resources and governments. Many African countries were
struggling for independence from European colonial powers during this period, and the Cold War added
another layer of complexity to their struggles.

5. Now you are going to analyze and considering sourcing for each document, considering how the
documents answer the prompt.
Document Sourcing

H – Historical  Where and when was the source produced? What is the current situation of importance?
Context  Place it in the appropriate context – connect the document across time to earlier and later eras or across space
to events happening in different places.
 Don’t just focus on the year of the document – what else happened that year? How might it affect its
meaning? What is the big picture?
 What else can you remember that is NOT explicitly stated in the document, but could support the time and
events surrounding the document?
A – Audience  Who is the author’s intended audience?
 How might this affect the validity and reliability of the document?
P – Purpose  What is the author’s purpose for creating this source?
 Why was the source produced – to persuade, to inform, as propaganda?
 How might all of this affect its reliability?
 P – Point of  What do you know about he author and his/her background?
View  What role is he/she in at the time of this document? What perspective does he/she have on the topic? From
what point of view is he/she writing this document?
 Is the author credible? Is the document credible?
Y – Why?  What main idea is the source trying to convey?
Significance  Why is the source important to World History?
 Does it reflect change over time?
 Ask yourself, “So what?” in relation to the question asked.
 If writing a DBQ, HOW and WHY does this document support your thesis?

Document 1

Source: United States Congress House of Representatives, Committee on Un-American Activities, How

Communists Menace Vital Materials, map published in 1956.

A legend below the map provides assessments by the Committee of Un-American Activities regarding
Soviet activities in various parts of the world. The assessment for Africa (arrow number three) reads:
“Africa: [Soviet] encouragement of nationalist terrorists. Stirring up racial tensions. Psychological
warfare against U.S. and West based on colonialism and color.”

Summarize the document

How does the document

 answer the prompt? What
claim(s) emerge(s)?

Which sourcing element

(HAPP) would you use to
respond to the document and
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding
the document?????

Document 2

Source: Editorial in Evening News, the official newspaper of the ruling Ghanaian Convention People’s Party,
published on the eve of the first Conference of Independent African States, Accra, Ghana, 1958.

“When it is an African uprising against tyranny and oppression, the imperialists call it 'terrorism’; but when it is White
people taking up arms under similar conditions they call it a just cause. [For example], the recent Hungarian
uprising* was universally praised as a just opposition against suppression, and the Hungarians who participated in it
were christened “freedom fighters.” But what the Russians did to the Hungarians that the “free” world made so much
fuss about was the same thing that the British did in Kenya, and the French are doing in Algeria. . . .

It is high time that we be blunt and impartial in our condemnation of imperialism, regardless of which power is
carrying it out. . . . We have no love for Russia and are not interested in the dirty business of Eastern-Western
power bloc politics. But so many in the west are ready to accuse Russia of her brutalities, yet defend [Western]
imperialism because, they claim, it is saving Africa from the “terrorism” of self-rule!”

*A reference to the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, in which mass protests toppled the country’s communist
government, leading a Soviet-led military invasion and the forcible reimposition of communist rule.

Summarize the document The document is an editorial published in 1958 in the official newspaper of
Ghana's ruling party, the Convention People's Party, on the eve of the first
Conference of Independent African States. The editorial asserts that
Western imperialists label African uprisings against tyranny and oppression
as "terrorism," while labeling similar actions by white people as a just cause.
It points out the hypocrisy of the West in praising the recent Hungarian
uprising as a just opposition against suppression while condemning similar
actions in Kenya and Algeria. The document calls for impartial
condemnation of imperialism, regardless of which power is carrying it out,
and argues that many in the West defend imperialism while accusing Russia
of brutality. The document emphasizes the importance of African self-rule
and condemns the West's attempts to interfere with it.
How does the document The document asserts that Western imperial powers have a double
answer the prompt? What standard when it comes to labeling resistance movements as "terrorism."
claim(s) emerge(s)? The prompt's question is not explicitly stated in the document, but it does
address the issue of Western hypocrisy in condemning the actions of the
Soviet Union while ignoring similar actions taken by Western powers in
Africa. The claim that emerges from the document is that Western imperial
powers are unfairly labeled as defenders of freedom while African uprisings
 against oppression are labeled as terrorism. The document suggests that
this double standard is the result of Western bias and should be
condemned impartially.
Which sourcing element In this case, understanding the historical context of the document involves
(HAPP) would you use to examining the political climate in Africa during the late 1950s when many
respond to the document and countries were seeking independence from their colonial rulers. The
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding document was produced on the eve of the first Conference of Independent
the document????? African States, which was held in Accra, Ghana, in 1958. The conference
brought together leaders from newly independent African countries to
discuss issues related to the continent's development and the struggle
against colonialism and imperialism.

Document 3

Source: United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Allen Dulles, secret diplomatic telegram to
the CIA agent in the Congolese capital Leopoldville, August 26, 1960.

“In your dispatch of August 18, you expressed the opinion that the Congo is experiencing a classic communist
takeover* whether or not Lumumba himself is a Communist or just playing the Communist game to help him solidify
his power. You state that there might be little time left in which to take action if we were to avoid another Cuba.

In high quarters here [in Washington], there is the clear-cut conclusion that as long as Lumumba continues to hold
high office, the inevitable result will at best be chaos and at worst it would pave the way to Communist takeover of
the Congo, with disastrous consequences for the U.S. and for the interests of the free world. Consequently, we
conclude that [Lumumba’s] removal must be an urgent and prime objective that should be a high priority of our
covert action in the Congo.”

*a reference to the May 1960 Congolese election which brought to power Patrice Lumumba, independent Congo’s
first prime minister.

Summarize the document The document is a secret telegram sent by the Director of the United States
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Allen Dulles, to the CIA agent in
Leopoldville, the capital of Congo, on August 26, 1960. Dulles expresses
concern that the Congo is experiencing a communist takeover, whether or
not the prime minister, Patrice Lumumba, is a communist or just playing the
communist game to consolidate his power. Dulles states that Lumumba's
continued presence in power will result in chaos or even a communist
takeover, which would be disastrous for the US and the free world.
Therefore, the document concludes that Lumumba's removal must be a
high priority of covert action in the Congo.
How does the document  The document suggests that the United States Central Intelligence Agency
answer the prompt? What (CIA) believed that the Congo was experiencing a communist takeover
claim(s) emerge(s)? under the leadership of Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba. The CIA believed
that Lumumba's removal from office was necessary to prevent chaos or a
communist takeover of the Congo, which would have disastrous
consequences for the US and the free world. The document indicates that
the CIA saw Lumumba as a potential threat to US interests and viewed his
removal from power as an urgent and high priority objective of their covert
action in the Congo. Therefore, the claim that emerges from the document
is that the US government considered Lumumba's removal as necessary to
prevent a communist takeover in Congo and protect US interests.
 Which sourcing element Historical Context helps us understand the background and circumstances
(HAPP) would you use to surrounding an event, which can help provide a deeper understanding of
respond to the document and the document's contents. In this case, understanding the historical context
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding of the document could help explain why the CIA was interested in the
the document????? Congo and why they were concerned about Lumumba's leadership.
The historical context of the document is that in the early 1960s, the Cold
War was in full swing, and the United States and the Soviet Union were
engaged in a global struggle for influence. The Congo was a newly
independent country that was rich in natural resources, making it
strategically important to both superpowers. Lumumba was seen as a left-
leaning leader who was friendly to the Soviet Union, which made him a
target for U.S. intervention.

Document 4

Source: Frantz Fanon, French West Indian political philosopher and activist, Toward the African Revolution, book
published in 1964.

“It is surely not by chance that the hand of Moscow is ‘discovered,’ in an almost stereotyped way, behind each
demand for national independence put forth by a colonial people. This is because any difficulty that is put in the way
of the supremacy of the West is seen as a threat to its economic power and its military interests .. . . .

The position taken by a few newly independent countries, which are determined to remain outside the policy of the
superpower blocs, has introduced a new dimension into the balance of forces in the world. Adopting the so-called
policy of positive neutralism, of non-dependence, of non-commitment, the underdeveloped countries that are
awakening from a long slumber of slavery and of oppression are trying to remain outside of any warlike
involvement, in order to devote themselves to the urgent economic tasks, to staving off hunger, to the improvement
of man’s lot.”

Summarize the document Frantz Fanon's book "Toward the African Revolution," published in 1964,
discusses the relationship between national independence movements in
colonial territories and the global balance of power. He argues that the
West sees any challenge to its economic and military supremacy as a threat,
and thus often accuses national independence movements of being
influenced by Moscow. Fanon also notes that newly independent countries
are attempting to remain neutral and independent, focusing instead on
economic development and improving the lives of their people. He calls this
policy "positive neutralism" and sees it as a way for underdeveloped
countries to assert their independence and improve their situations without
being drawn into global conflicts.
 How does the document The document suggests that the West, particularly the superpower blocs,
answer the prompt? What sees demands for national independence by colonial peoples as a threat to
claim(s) emerge(s)? their economic and military interests. The hand of Moscow is often
stereotypically blamed for such demands. The emergence of newly
independent countries that choose to remain outside the superpower blocs
and adopt policies of positive neutralism, non-dependence, and non-
commitment introduces a new dimension into the world's balance of
forces. These countries, awakening from long periods of slavery and
oppression, prioritize urgent economic tasks and the improvement of
people's lives over warlike involvement.

Which sourcing element Fanon's work focuses on the struggle of African nations against colonialism
(HAPP) would you use to and imperialism, and the impact of the Cold War on this struggle. In this
respond to the document and particular passage, Fanon critiques the Western powers, particularly the
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding United States, for their efforts to maintain their economic and military
the document????? dominance over the developing world. He also acknowledges the growing
movement among newly independent countries to remain neutral and non-
aligned in the Cold War conflict.

Document 5
Source: Viktor Bakin, Soviet diplomatic official in Poland, briefing to Polish officials on Soviet activities in
Somalia, 1971.

“After the 1969 military coup in Somalia and the assumption of power of General Siad Barre’s Revolutionary
Council, many positive elements in Somali domestic and foreign policies can be observed. Therefore, the Soviet
Union is planning to comprehensively activate its relations with that country, including the following activities
undertaken so far. . .

In the economic field: The Soviet Union offered Somalia a long-term loan of 40 million rubles. . . The sending of
additional Soviet specialists to Somalia was also agreed. Currently there are 111 Soviet specialists, outside the
military field, in Somalia, including five professionals working in various Somali government departments. Thirty-two
Soviet teachers and 18 Soviet doctors are planned to travel to Somalia this year. There are 350 Somalis, except
those at military academies, currently studying in the Soviet Union.

In the military field: The Soviet Union also provides military assistance to Somalia. The Somali army, numbering
14,000 troops, is almost exclusively equipped with Soviet weaponry and is trained by Soviet military specialists.
Somali staff officers are trained in the Soviet Union.

We seek to further promote relations with Somalia, and we hope that the other socialist countries, including Poland,
will also develop their economic and political ties with that country. It would be desirable, therefore, to coordinate
USSR’s and the other socialist countries’ activities in that regard.”
 Summarize the document

How does the document

answer the prompt? What
claim(s) emerge(s)?

Which sourcing element

(HAPP) would you use to
respond to the document and
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding
the document?????

Document 6

Source: Janez Hocevar, Yugoslav ambassador to Somalia, report to the Yugoslav government, sent from
Mogadishu, Somalia, 1975.

“Although many questions remain open as to the reason behind President Siad’s recent invitation to the Americans
to inspect the Soviet-built military facilities in the [Somali] port of Berbera,* I believe it was aimed at demonstrating to
the world that Soviet-friendly Somalia can retain control over all of its military installations. This affirms the Somali
policy of independence and nonalignment. President Siad might also intend to lessen Somali diplomatic isolation in
order to engage with the Arab League, the Organization of African Unity, and other nonaligned countries.

The Soviet Union took advantage of the locals, building military complexes according to Soviet needs. This is taking
a toll on Somalia’s path toward true independence. The American inspections, although humiliating, are improving
Somali-American relations. They hint at a possible future where the United States provides economic and
humanitarian assistance in order to match Soviet influence. This would expand the Somali leadership’s room for
maneuvering.”

*In the mid-1970s, the relationship between Siad Barre’s government and the Soviet Union began to deteriorate
because of Soviet unwillingness to back Somali claims over parts of neighboring Ethiopia.

Summarize the document

How does the document

answer the prompt? What
claim(s) emerge(s)?
 Which sourcing element
(HAPP) would you use to
respond to the document and
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding
the document?????

Document 7
Source: Robert Mugabe, leader of the Zimbabwe African National Union [ZANU], a political and military
organization trying to end White minority rule in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe, interview in the Mozambique-based
newspaper Tempo, 1978.

“We are not a creation of the Soviet Union or Cuba; we are a creation of Zimbabwe. Our army is a manifestation of
the nationalist desires of our people, a product of the history of our country. . . . It is true that the Soviets gave us
aid, as did the entire international socialist community. ZAPU* trained militants in Cuba and, after 1967, and so did
we. But though we trained cadres in the socialist countries, this did not transform our army into a Russian or
Chinese army. Our war is supported by the progressive world. And it is true that our objective is the liquidation of
imperialism and colonialism. But it is the Zimbabwean people who are fighting the war. No one can deny us the right
to seek aid from our friends and allies. But it will always be Zimbabweans who direct the struggle.”

*Another Zimbabwean militant group fighting against minority White rule in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe

Summarize the document

How does the document

answer the prompt? What
claim(s) emerge(s)?

Which sourcing element

(HAPP) would you use to
respond to the document and
HOW DOES IT HELP YOU
FURTHER in understanding
the document?????

Organizing your essay Consider the Angolan Civil War for Outside evidence!

Look for claims that run the spectrum of affects for women in their struggle for rights
(furthered rights and hampered rights). Look for claims that show extent and are specific
Argument categories / Thesis claims: Document Which Any SPECIFIC outside evidence that you are aware
to what extent were countries able to #s documents of that supports your thesis claim? Explain how it
conduct independent policies. Show will you proves the claim.
both sides. source? ONLY ONE PIECE NEEDED IN ENTIRE ESSAY,
 NOT EACH PARAGRAPH!
Only for one of the claims!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Write your thesis statement here. Use the questions above to help in the creation. Pull together the
claims from your organizer.

DBQ Organization
Paragraph 1: Introduction
 3 sentences of context
 Thesis statement (can be more than one sentence)

Paragraph 2: Thesis Claim 1

 Topic Sentence
 Show how each document you have chosen for this claim supports the claim with evidence
and reasoning. EXPLAIN.
 Show how at least 1 document’s historical context, author’s point of view, intended audience,
or purpose of the document affects your argument
 Possibly 1 piece of outside evidence not from the documents that supports your claim (with
explanation/reasoning)

Paragraph 3: Thesis Claim 2

 Topic Sentence
 Show how each document you have chosen for this claim supports the claim with evidence
and reasoning. EXPLAIN.
 Show how at least 1 document’s historical context, author’s point of view, intended audience,
or purpose of the document affects your argument
 Possibly 1 piece of outside evidence not from the documents that supports your claim (with
explanation/reasoning)

Paragraph 4: Thesis Claim 3

 Topic Sentence
 Show how each document you have chosen for this claim supports the claim with evidence
and reasoning. EXPLAIN.
 Show how at least 1 document’s historical context, author’s point of view, intended audience,
or purpose of the document affects your argument
 Possibly 1 piece of outside evidence not from the documents that supports your claim (with
explanation/reasoning)

Conclusion
 It is a good idea to recapitulate what you said in your Thesis Statement in order to suggest to
your reader that you have accomplished what you set out to accomplish.