Russian Colonial Ambitions in Africa

The video explores why Russia, despite being a major imperial power, did not colonize Africa like other European nations. It highlights the geopolitical challenges and strategic decisions that led to Russia's limited involvement. The video also narrates the story of Nikolai Akanov, a Russian explorer who attempted to establish a colony in Djibouti, which ended in failure due to lack of official support and geopolitical tensions with France. The video concludes by reflecting on the potential impact if Akanov's mission had succeeded.

Which European empire is notably absent from the list of those that colonized Africa?

• Germany

• Belgium

• Russia

• France

What was a major geographical challenge for Russia in colonizing Africa?

• Crossing the Sahara Desert

• Navigating the Black Sea through the Ottoman Empire

• Crossing the Atlantic Ocean

• Sailing around the Cape of Good Hope

Why did Russia focus more on Eastern Europe and Central Asia rather than Africa?

• They preferred regions they could directly control

• They lacked military strength

• They had treaties with African nations

• They had no interest in overseas territories

What was a significant reason for Russia's interest in Ethiopia?

• Ethiopia's political alliances

• Ethiopia's mineral wealth

• Ethiopia's strategic location

• Religious connections with the Ethiopian Orthodox Church

Who was Nikolai Akanov?

• A Russian merchant

• A Russian explorer who attempted to establish a colony in Africa

• A Russian diplomat

• A Russian military leader

What was the name of the village where Akanov established his colony?

• Segallo

• Addis Ababa

• Mogadishu

• Cairo

What was the reaction of the French authorities to the Russian flag flying over their territory?

• They sought diplomatic resolution

• They welcomed the Russians

• They immediately attacked

• They ignored it

What was the outcome of Akanov's expedition?

• It ended in failure with the colony being abandoned

• It sparked a war between Russia and France

• It resulted in a diplomatic alliance with France

• It led to a successful Russian colony

What happened to Akanov and his team after the failure of the colony?

• They were sent on another expedition

• They were exiled to Siberia

• They were prosecuted and imprisoned

• They were celebrated as heroes

What hypothetical question does the video pose about Akanov's mission?

• What if Akanov had never attempted the expedition?

• What if Akanov had been successful?

• What if Akanov had allied with the French?

• What if Akanov had discovered gold?