Three Key Concepts and a Critical Question


Critical Question from Goldstein: How do you think independence from the colonialism has affected the postcolonial history of Liberia? pg. 507 Goldstein.

Neo-colonialism: This term refers to the period after a country gains independence from colonial rule. Although there is no longer any formal control through the government, the country continues to be exploited by its previous colonial power. This is primarily because of the economic dependency and threat of violence that the colonial power enforces on the "independent" country. This term is significant for Liberia because it has fallen victim to this phenomenon.

Revolutionary Movements: This term refers to the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of the Liberian people and their desire to gain control through violence. These factions are small, grassroots groups of rebels who participate in violence for their economic well-being and because of the political upheaval.

Corruption: This term refers to the beauracracy in the the Tolbert and Doe administrations. These political groups embezzled funds sent from international states for their own purposes. Both the Tolbert and Doe administration were eventually overthrown, in part, because they were not paying attention to the Liberian economy.