Artificial borders

Definition

Artificial borders are boundaries that are created through human intervention rather than natural features like rivers or mountains. These borders often disregard cultural, ethnic, or historical contexts and can lead to conflicts, particularly in regions with diverse populations. In many cases, these borders were established during colonial periods, which has had lasting implications for the countries and peoples affected.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The establishment of artificial borders during the Scramble for Africa led to the division of ethnic groups and the creation of states that included disparate populations.
2. Many African countries today still struggle with the political and social ramifications of artificial borders drawn by colonial powers at the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885.
3. Artificial borders often create tensions and conflicts because they can separate culturally or ethnically similar groups, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement and resentment.
4. The imposition of artificial borders has historically limited the ability of communities to self-determine their governance and manage their resources effectively.
5. In some regions, the legacy of artificial borders continues to fuel instability, as newly independent states grapple with the challenges of national identity and cohesion.

Review Questions

• How do artificial borders impact social cohesion within newly formed states?
  • Artificial borders can severely impact social cohesion in newly formed states by separating groups that share cultural or ethnic ties. When borders are drawn without considering these connections, it can lead to fragmentation within societies and create tensions between different communities. This disconnection may foster feelings of exclusion among certain groups, ultimately resulting in conflicts and undermining efforts toward national unity.
• Evaluate the consequences of artificial borders on post-colonial African nations and their development.
  • The consequences of artificial borders on post-colonial African nations have been significant, as these borders often grouped together diverse and sometimes opposing ethnicities under single national identities. This has led to ongoing ethnic conflicts and political instability, hampering development efforts. Countries have faced challenges in establishing effective governance structures, maintaining national cohesion, and addressing grievances from marginalized groups due to the arbitrary nature of border creation during colonial times.
• Synthesize how the concept of artificial borders relates to contemporary geopolitical tensions in regions previously impacted by colonialism.
  • The concept of artificial borders is central to understanding contemporary geopolitical tensions in regions previously impacted by colonialism. As many nations continue to navigate their legacies, the arbitrary divisions established during colonial rule contribute to ongoing disputes over territory, resources, and governance. These unresolved tensions can result in conflict as communities strive for recognition and autonomy while confronting external political influences that perpetuate divisions based on outdated boundaries. Consequently, the struggles stemming from these artificial borders underscore the complexities of achieving lasting peace and stability in formerly colonized regions.

Related terms

Colonialism: A practice where one country establishes control over another territory, often leading to the exploitation of resources and imposition of foreign governance.

Ethnic Conflict: Disputes that arise between different ethnic groups often as a result of artificial borders that divide communities or ignore existing cultural divisions.

Balkanization: The process by which a region or state breaks down into smaller, often hostile units along ethnic or cultural lines, frequently exacerbated by the existence of artificial borders.