“African pragmatism was the most important factor in the decision to collaborate with European powers.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that pragmatism was the main factor in the decision of local elites to collaborate with European powers. Candidates may discuss the role played by local elites during the establishment of colonialism in Africa and their relationship with colonial authorities, or they may focus on the reasons that led local elites to act as intermediaries between African people and colonial government. Candidates may refer to the benefits that collaborators enjoyed, but also to their actions for the protection of local people and the improvement of their conditions of life under European rule. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, the contribution of collaborators to the legitimacy of colonial powers, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.