(a) Why was the Policy of Association introduced in French West Africa?
(b) Describe the characteristics of the Policy.
Reasons why the policy of association was introduced in French West Africa :
(i) Assimilated elite: There was a negative reaction from the assimilated elite towards the obnoxious policy of assimilation.
(ii) Costly to run: The policy of assimilation was seen as a costly one. France was fully involved and so many officials were needed in the administration.
(iii) President De Gaulle: His rise to power facilitated his desire to replace assimilation with association.
(iv) Second World War: France had to abandon the policy of assimilation because after the second world war, the tempo of nationalist activities in West Africa went up drastically.
(b) Characteristics of the Policy of Association are:
(i) Dual Citizenship: Dual citizenship was abolished to reflect the new policy of association.
(ii) Formation of Political Parties: The new policy of association accommodated the formation of political parties.
(iii) Culture: Originally, France did not recognize other cultures outside the French culture but this new policy paved the way for- her recognition of different cultures.
(iv) Assemblies: Local and national assemblies were created or established in the colonies.
(v) Forced Labour: The new policy abolished forced labour, indignant policy and compulsory military service.
(vi) Education: Only the citizens benefited immensely from education under the policy of assimilation.This new policy liberalised education.
(vii) Chieftaincy institution: This institution was recognised and the chiefs were given powers to perform.
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