| Abstract | This project seeks to explain the "post colonial hangover" a trend that claims former British colonies to be at an advantage compared to colonies controlled by other European nations. This project compares the former British colonies to former French colonies in Africa, and seeks to identify the main differences between the two powers and how these differences have impacted current state development. This project takes into special account the role of direct versus indirect rule and the role of civil versus common legal systems. Initially, base measures are taken for all former British and French former colonies in the areas of quality of life, governance, and economic measures. Following these initial measures, this project moves into a case study of Ghana (British) and Cote d'Ivoire (French), to further identify the major differences between the two colonial experiences and how these experiences are reflected in modern day politics of those countries. The biggest finding of this study was that the leadership style of both respective colonizing powers had huge influence on how local institutions were formed. The original colony governing structures also had a great influence on current government formation and processes today in relatively new African nations. |
