PDP 2 - All African People's Conference: Resolution on Imperialism and Colonialism, Accra, 1958

Author Bio: The All-African People's Conference was a conference held by the major political leaders of African countries in the 1950's as well as by delegates from African independence movements. They all shared a common goal of ending European colonialism and imperialism over African countries, and stated that such actions enforced by European powers were not only unlawful, but inhumane. Due to the fact that that the Conference was a collaboration of many important Africans taking a stand against European rule, I found that there was little to no bias within the Resolution written by them. Also, it should be noted that the African People's Conference was a group that worked together to create the Resolution on Imperialism and Colonialism so there is no specific author of the article. 

Date/Context: During the late 1950's leading into the early 1960's, a group of African political leaders along with independence movement delegates formed the African People's Conference in an attempt to overcome the European forces of imperialism and colonialism that were ruining the lives of many Africans in several countries. This will to fight for dominance over their own continent shown by Africans was significant because in a way, it displayed the cruelty of Western powers and their strong desire for wealth and power. The document created by this group of Africans is essentially a list of common goals and guidelines for the group detailing what they wish to accomplish. The context of this article is very important because it puts our lives in perspective. I would never have though that a mere 65 years ago, many African countries were fighting for independence and freedom, while there are many Westerners that take their belongings and position for granted. 

Summary: This document lists the desires and goals of the African People's Conference, including their thoughts about imperialism and colonialism. It is clear to identify the common goal of abolishing imperialism and colonialism due to the position many African countries have been placed in under European rule. The document also outlines ten rules that would soon be a reality for Africans after they gained their independence. These include that African military powers should not be abused or used for wrong-doing, but to stand for what is right and rid the continent of Western imperialism. Another key point is that the People's Conference wishes to preserve the rights of all Africans regardless of sex or origin, which was soon put into action once the countries gained independence. 

Key Quotation: 

"That the All-African People's Conference in Accra declares its full support to all fighters for freedom in Africa, to all those who resort to peaceful means of non-violence and civil disobedience, as well as to all those who are compelled to retaliate against violence to attain national independence and freedom for the people. Where such retaliation becomes necessary, the Conference condemns all legislations which consider those who fight for their independence and freedom as ordinary criminals."