Green Bridge Learning Resource For Nationalism, Constitutional Developments And Independence

Overview

During the period of 1900 to 1960, Nigeria underwent significant transformations marked by the rise of nationalist movements, crucial constitutional developments, and the eventual attainment of independence. The emergence of the nationalist movement played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Nigeria's history towards self-governance.

Nationalism's Emergence: Nationalism began to take root as Nigerians sought to assert their identity, rights, and autonomy in the face of colonial rule. The desire for self-determination and freedom from British control fueled the nationalist movements, leading to the mobilization of various groups and individuals advocating for independence.

Constitutional Developments: The evolution of Nigeria's constitutional landscape was intricately linked to the nationalist struggle. Various constitutions such as the Clifford Constitution of 1922, the Richards Constitution of 1946, and the Macpherson Constitution of 1951 played significant roles in defining the relationship between the Nigerian people and the colonial administration.

Impact of World War II: World War II served as a catalyst for the agitation for independence in Nigeria. The contributions of Nigerians to the war effort, coupled with the shifting global dynamics post-war, highlighted the inconsistencies of colonial domination and further fueled demands for self-rule.

Party Politics and Regionalism: The development of party politics in Nigeria reflected the diverse interests and aspirations of the regional populations. Issues of federalism, minority representation, and regional autonomy became central themes in the political discourse, shaping the future governance structure of the country.

Constitutional Conferences: The constitutional conferences held in Lagos in 1957 and London in 1958 were crucial junctures in Nigeria's path to independence. These conferences provided platforms for deliberations on key issues such as the form of government, resource allocation, and the transition to self-rule.

Factors Leading to Independence: The attainment of independence in 1960 was a culmination of various factors including sustained nationalist agitations, strategic political alliances, international pressure, and the gradual realization on the part of the British government of the inevitability of granting independence to Nigeria.

In conclusion, the period of 1900 to 1960 in Nigeria witnessed a transformative journey marked by the fervent pursuit of nationalism, the dynamic evolution of constitutional frameworks, and the ultimate achievement of independence. The legacy of this era continues to shape Nigeria's identity, governance structure, and aspirations for the future.

Objectives

Examine the Impact of the Constitutional Conferences
Assess the Roles of the Different Constitutions in Constitutional Development
Trace the Development of Party Politics and Its Impact on Regionalism and Minority Question
Determine the Factors that Aided the Attainment of Independence
Trace the Emergence of the Nationalist Movement
Examine the Effect of World War II in the Agitation for Independence and the Constitutional Developments

Lesson Note

The journey towards independence in many nations, especially former colonies, was a complex process shaped by a confluence of historical events and concerted efforts by various actors. Key among these were the nationalist movements, constitutional developments, and the evolving political landscape. This article delves into these significant factors, illuminating the multifaceted path to independence.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Nationalism, Constitutional Developments And Independence. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What were some key objectives of the nationalist movements in Nigeria between 1900 and 1960? A. To demand equal representation within the colonial administration B. To advocate for the independence of Nigeria from British rule C. To promote African culture and traditions D. To resist the imposition of colonial policies and taxation Answer: A and B
Which of the following factors aided the attainment of independence for Nigeria in 1960? A. The peaceful cooperation between colonial authorities and nationalist leaders B. The economic contributions of Nigeria to the British Empire C. The successful organization of mass protests and movements D. The weakening of Britain after World War II Answer: C and D
What impact did the World War II have on the agitation for independence in Nigeria? A. It strengthened the colonial hold on Nigeria B. It led to increased demands for self-governance and independence C. It decreased nationalist activities due to focus on the war effort D. It resulted in the imposition of more oppressive colonial policies Answer: B
Which of the following is a role played by the 1922 Clifford Constitution in the constitutional development of Nigeria? A. Introduction of regionalism in Nigeria B. Establishment of the first political party in Nigeria C. Expansion of voting rights to more Nigerians D. Creation of the position of Governor-General Answer: C
What was the significance of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951 in Nigeria's constitutional development? A. It granted full internal self-government to Nigeria B. It imposed direct colonial rule without Nigerian representation C. It abolished all traditional institutions in Nigeria D. It established a system of apartheid in Nigeria Answer: A

Recommended Books

	Nigeria: Background to Nationalism Subtitle Colonial Rule and National Development Genre HISTORY Publisher Longman Year 1982 ISBN 9780582642984 Description This book provides a detailed account of Nigeria's history during the colonial era focusing on nationalism.
	The Making of Modern Africa: The Late Nineteenth Century to Present Subtitle Nigeria and Nationalism Genre HISTORY Publisher Cambridge University Press Year 2018 ISBN 9781108481984 Description An in-depth analysis of the nationalist movements in Nigeria within the broader context of African history.

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Nationalism, Constitutional Developments And Independence from previous years

JAMB UTME - History - 2023 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

Which initiative was launched by the Buhari administration to tackle corruption in Nigeria?

EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission)

Operation Python Dance

Operation Crocodile Smile

Operation Lafiya Dole

View Answer

WAEC SSCE - History - 2018 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

a. List any three nationalists in Nigeria from 1922 to 1960.
b. State any four factors that led to the formation of nationalist movements in Nigeria.

Answer

Answer Details

a. Three nationalists in Nigeria from 1922 to 1960 were:

Nnamdi Azikiwe: He was a journalist, politician, and statesman who played a key role in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was the first President of Nigeria and also a co-founder of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
Obafemi Awolowo: He was a lawyer, politician, and statesman who was a key figure in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was a co-founder of the Action Group (AG) and served as the Premier of the Western Region.
Ahmadu Bello: He was a statesman and politician who was a key figure in Nigeria's struggle for independence. He was the leader of the Northern People's Congress (NPC) and served as the Premier of the Northern Region.

b. Four factors that led to the formation of nationalist movements in Nigeria were:

Colonialism: The colonization of Nigeria by the British provided the impetus for nationalist movements to emerge. The imposition of colonial rule and the denial of political rights to Nigerians led to demands for independence.
Economic Exploitation: The exploitation of Nigeria's natural resources by the British and the exclusion of Nigerians from the benefits of their own resources led to demands for self-rule and independence.
Education: The growth of education in Nigeria, particularly the emergence of an educated elite, provided the intellectual foundation for nationalist movements. Education enabled Nigerians to become aware of their rights and to demand self-rule and independence.
Pan-Africanism: The rise of pan-Africanism and the desire for African unity provided inspiration for nationalist movements in Nigeria. The ideas of pan-Africanism, particularly the principles of self-rule and independence, were embraced by Nigerian nationalists and became a driving force behind the struggle for independence.

View Answer