Explain the French policies of Assimilation and Association.
Explanation
The Policy of Assimilation: This was the policy of administration that the French adopted in administering its colonies in West Africa. The French design was to impose her culture, law, language, etc., on West Africans. Originally, France had the belief that her culture and civilization are superior and so would want to embark on civilising the people of West Africa. After achieving this, West African territories were then seen as an extension of the French civilization. Some people or areas within the French federation were made French citizens, giving them the opportunities to enjoy legal rights, education and other privileges. Those people not defined as citizens were made non-citizens or subjects and cannot enjoy these rights and privileges.
The Policy of Association: The obnoxious policy of Assimilation gave way to the policy of Association. This new policy as advocated, recognised the traditional institutions, political institutions, as well as, the culture, customs and traditions of the people, in the colonies. Similarly, the former division of Africans into two citizens (citizens and non-citizens) was abolished. Also, the indignant policy, forced labour, etc., were as well abolished. This was done by the French authorities to create more avenues for co-operation.