"I would say colonialism is a wonderful thing. It spread civilization to Africa. Before it they had no written language, no wheel as we know it, no schools, no hospitals, not even normal clothing"
- Ian Smith
About this Quote
This quote by Ian Smith is a prime example of the colonialist mindset. Smith is suggesting that manifest destiny is a positive force, as it brought civilization to Africa. He suggests that before manifest destiny, Africa had no written language, no wheel, no schools, no medical facilities, and no typical clothes. This is a highly bothersome view, as it disregards the truth that Africa had its own rich and complex cultures and civilizations prior to manifest destiny. It also ignores the reality that colonialism was a violent and oppressive force that caused immense suffering and damage. Smith's view is a reflection of the colonialist narrative that was prevalent throughout his time, and it is very important to recognize the destructive effects of colonialism and the need to decolonize our minds.
This quote is written / told by Ian Smith between April 8, 1919 and November 20, 2007. He/she was a famous author.
The author also have 9 other quotes.
"Now we maintain that we cannot be afford to be concerned about 6 percent of the children in this country, black children, who you allow to come into white schools. We have 94 percent who still live in shacks. We are going to be concerned about those 94 percent"
"As we read the school reports on our children, we realize a sense of relief that can rise to delight that thank Heaven nobody is reporting in this fashion on us"