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In document A, how is the Belgian person portrayed? In document A, the Belgian person is presented as a short, overweight, plain, and stereotypical white European explorer who appears afraid and lacks intelligence, particularly as he frantically cuts the rope - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2013
Question 1
In document A, how is the Belgian person portrayed? In document A, the Belgian person is presented as a short, overweight, plain, and stereotypical white European e... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In document A, how is the Belgian person portrayed? In document A, the Belgian person is presented as a short, overweight, plain, and stereotypical white European explorer who appears afraid and lacks intelligence, particularly as he frantically cuts the rope - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2013
Step 1
In document A, how is the Belgian person portrayed?
Answer
In Document A, the portrayal of the Belgian person is one of a short, overweight, plain, and stereotypical white European explorer. The Belgian appears fearful and exhibits a lack of intelligence, as depicted by his frantic actions. This characterization reveals the underlying racial stereotypes and highlights the power dynamic present in the scene.
Step 2
In document B, who will suffer if the rope is cut? Give a reason for your answer.
Answer
In Document B, both the Congolese and the Belgian paratroopers will suffer if the rope is cut. The imagery suggests that the tension between the two groups will lead to dire consequences, symbolizing the precarious situation that both are in; if the rope is severed, neither side will escape unscathed.
Step 3
According to document B, what is the attitude of the Belgian paratroopers towards the Congolese Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba?
Answer
The Belgian paratroopers maintain a disrespectful and contemptuous attitude toward Patrice Lumumba. Their disregard for his authority is evidenced by their aggressive actions, implying that they view themselves as superior to the Congolese leadership.
Step 4
Do both documents suggest that the Congo is a dangerous place? Give reasons for your answer based on both documents.
Answer
Yes, both documents suggest that the Congo is a dangerous place. Document A presents a vivid image of danger through the cartoon, showing knife-wielding Congolese and the perilous environment. Document B further underlines this danger by detailing the violent behaviors of the Belgian paratroopers, indicating a chaotic and unstable situation.
Step 5
Do you find evidence of racism in both documents? Give reasons for your answer based on both documents.
Answer
Yes, evidence of racism is evident in both documents. Document A depicts the Congolese in a manner that portrays them as unintelligent and chaotic, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Document B suggests that the Belgian paratroopers hold a dismissive view of the Congolese, as reflected in their violent actions and refusal to acknowledge the humanity of the Congolese soldiers.
Step 6
Who is responsible for the crisis in the Congo according to each document? Give reasons for your answer based on both documents.
Answer
According to Document A, the crisis can be attributed to the Congolese, who are depicted as cutting the rope, which exacerbates the situation. Document B shifts some blame to the Belgian paratroopers, whose aggressive behavior contributes to the ongoing unrest, suggesting a shared responsibility between both parties in the crisis.
Step 7
How does the cartoon in document A illustrate a strength and a weakness of political cartoons as sources for historical evidence? Refer to document A in your answer.
Answer
The cartoon in Document A illustrates a strength by providing an immediate and impactful visual of the chaotic events, effectively drawing attention to the tensions in the Congo. However, its weakness lies in the lack of historical context, limiting the depth of understanding about the complexities of the crisis and the motivations behind the depicted actions.
Step 8
Why did Katanga secede from the Congo, and why did the secession bring about international involvement?
Answer
Katanga seceded from the Congo due to fears of instability and aspirations for autonomy. This act of secession sparked significant international interest and involvement, particularly as it drew in colonial legacies and Cold War dynamics, illustrating the complexities of post-colonial governance.