To what extent was the partition of Africa caused by British concerns over control of the sea route to the East?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the partition of Africa was, in some way, caused by British concerns over control of the sea route to the east. They may consider British concerns with safeguarding sea routes to India—the jewel in the crown of its empire—or its desire to consolidate control of South Africa, a factor which brought it into conflict with the Boer republics. Candidates may also focus on rivalry with France over Suez and the occupation of Egypt, followed by the breakdown of the gentleman’s agreement in West Africa, and British concerns over the headwaters of the Nile, which stimulated colonization in East Africa. Candidates may explore weaknesses in the strategic argument, for example by arguing the partition was already underway before 1882. They may also consider the significance of other factors, such as economic causes of the partition.