01/11/2023
Political: Before colonization, Somalia was divided into several independent sultanates and clan republics that had their own governance systems and laws. After colonization, Somalia became a unified state under the influence of European powers that imposed their own administration and policies. The colonial rule also created artificial boundaries that separated some Somali clans and regions from each other. After independence, Somalia faced political instability and coups that led to the dictatorship of Siad Barre and the civil war that followed his overthrow.
Economic: Before colonization, Somalia was a prosperous trading nation that had strong commercial ties with other regions in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Somalia exported livestock, hides, frankincense, myrrh, and other goods to foreign markets and imported textiles, metals, spices, and other commodities. After colonization, Somalia’s economy became dependent on the colonial powers that exploited its resources and people. The colonists also introduced cash crops such as bananas and cotton that disrupted the traditional pastoralist and agricultural practices of the Somalis. After independence, Somalia’s economy suffered from corruption, mismanagement, droughts, famines, and conflicts that destroyed its infrastructure and production.
Social: Before colonization, Somalia had a complex and diverse society that was based on clan affiliation, kinship ties, and shared culture and religion. Somalis had a strong sense of identity and pride in their history and heritage. They also had a rich oral tradition that preserved their stories, poems, proverbs, and songs. After colonization, Somalia’s society was affected by the cultural and religious influences of the colonists. The colonists also created divisions and conflicts among the Somali clans by favoring some over others or by pitting them against each other. After independence, Somalia’s society became fragmented and polarized along clan lines that fueled violence and hatred.
