EXTERMINATE ALL THE BRUTES

Exterminate All the Brutes

Exterminate All the Brutes

Introduction

The dark background of Africa and the origins of genocide have been examined by Sven Lindqvist in his book “Exterminate all the Brutes”. It was a haunting tour presented by Lindqvist through the colonial past, interlinked with a modern-day travelogue. The author has exposed the roots of genocide in Africa while his trip through the Sahara desert. In his book, the author has shown that fantasies are not merely of superiority of white, but of real extermination that is clearing the world with the lesser races (Levene and Roberts, 1999).

Discussion

In the early years of 19th century, European nations played a minor role in Africa, which were controlling only areas that were along the coast. Areas that provided the opportunity for and to increase the wealth of the economy were concentrated upon. Although there was little monetary value, Europe renewed its interest in Africa by the mid-1800s. Colonial claims were established while not paying attention to the claims of African ethnic groups, kingdoms, and states (Levene and Roberts, 1999). Although many Africans resisted, many of these attempts failed. The author defines imperialism of Europe and the cruelty of people. European's renewed interest in Africa stemmed partly from a desire to create overseas empires. By controlling these lands, they had access to raw materials needed for their industrial economies. Markets were also opened for the goods they produced (Burroughs, 2010). 

Racism, social Darwinism, ideologies of extermination & genocide

The book is all about the imperialism of Europe, and all writers of Europe, politicians, and historians have proved this fact after the 18th century. However, they undoubtedly have proved the riddle of racism that is the superiority given to some races over the rest of the races, and the superior races have more right, in fact, ...