Examine the reasons for the spread of Christianity in Africa in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Candidates will consider the interrelationship of Christianity and its spread in Africa in the 19th and 20th centuries. Causes may predate the timeframe, but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the exploration of Africa and medical advances which opened Africa to missionaries. The wealth of Western Europe provided financial support for missions, imperial conquests brought military protection and improved communications. Converts were attracted by the economic and educational benefits that the Church provided. The defeat of non-Christian powers through colonial wars opened opportunities for Church expansion. Church opposition to the slave trade and support for many initiatives of social progress also attracted many converts. The prestige of the colonial powers attracted ambitious individuals who wished to associate with Western power and converted in order to be accepted by Europeans. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.