The “divide and rule” strategy, a hallmark of British colonialism, continues to manifest in modern UK politics. This tactic, historically used to control diverse populations by fostering divisions, has left a legacy of civil strife and conflict in former colonies. The scars of this policy are evident in the socio-political fabric of many nations, where ethnic and sectarian tensions persist long after independence.
One of the most tragic outcomes of “divide and rule” was the Partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. This event, orchestrated by the British, led to the displacement of over 15 million people and the deaths of an estimated one to two million due to religious and ethnic violence. The enduring hostility between India and Pakistan is a direct result of these colonial machinations.
In Nigeria, the British exploited ethnic divisions to maintain control, setting the stage for the Biafran Civil War (1967-1970), which resulted in the deaths of over a million people. The legacy of these divisions has also contributed to numerous military coups and ongoing regional tensions.
Similarly, in many African nations, arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers disregarded ethnic and cultural lines, leading to persistent conflicts and military interventions. Countries like Sudan, Rwanda, and Uganda have faced devastating civil wars and genocides, rooted in the colonial-era strategies of division and manipulation.
The UK itself grapples with similar strategies, subtly perpetuated to maintain power structures and influence. The recent Brexit debates and ongoing regional disparities highlight how “divide and rule” tactics are still employed to shape political landscapes and control public opinion. The latest ploy involves an Asian Prime Minister, un-elected and desperate to maintain power, using divisive rhetoric to incite fear and division. The irony is glaring when a Hindu leader in England addresses the so-called “Islamic threat,” reminiscent of colonial strategies to keep different groups at odds.
As we reflect on the enduring impact of these colonial tactics, it is crucial to recognize and challenge the remnants of “divide and rule” in contemporary society. Only through understanding and addressing this legacy can we hope to foster genuine unity and progress.
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