Nigeria and its tin fields

Key themes

Colonialism and Imperialism

The book is fundamentally a product and reflection of British colonialism. It details the expansion of imperial power through economic exploitation, demonstrating how the discovery of natural resources fueled the drive for territorial control and administrative oversight. The narrative implicitly justifies colonial presence as a means of 'development' and 'progress' for the region, while primarily serving British interests.

Resource Exploitation and Economic Development

This theme explores the process by which natural resources (tin) are identified, extracted, and commercialized, driving significant economic change. The book highlights the investment, labor, and infrastructure required for such large-scale exploitation, and positions it as the primary engine for Northern Nigeria's 'development' within the colonial framework.

Perception vs. Reality of Africa

Calvert explicitly addresses the early 'misconceptions' about Northern Nigeria, contrasting its previous negative portrayal as a challenging and unproductive region with its newfound reality as a source of immense wealth. This theme explores how European perceptions of African territories were often shaped by ignorance, prejudice, and economic interests, and how these perceptions could shift dramatically with new discoveries.

Worth discussing

How does Calvert's book reflect the prevailing attitudes and justifications for colonialism in the early 20th century?