Why was racism a factor in the colonization of the African continent?

Question

A.
Most of the world believed that Africans were superior, and the Europeans wanted to compete.
B.
Most Europeans believed that Africans were inferior and thought it was their duty to civilize the African continent.
C.
Europeans wanted to be able to influence foreign affairs.
D.
Europeans wanted control over important sea ports.

Answer 1

B. Most Europeans believed that Africans were inferior and thought it was their duty to civilize the African continent.

This statement highlights the paternalistic attitudes held by many Europeans during the period of colonization, which often justified their actions as a "civilizing mission," despite the profound negative impacts of colonialism on African societies.