The Afrikahaus in Berlin: A Legacy of Colonial Ambitions
Berlin is a city where every building tells a story, and The Afrikahaus is no exception. This historic structure stands as a testament to Germany’s colonial past and ambitions.
A Glimpse Into History
Located in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district (Am Karlsbad 10, Berlin), this early 20th-century building is more than an architectural landmark. It once served as the headquarters of the German Colonial Society, a group that played a crucial role in pushing for German colonies. Founded in 1887, the society became a meeting place for influential figures who strategized and advocated for German expansion.
The roots of these ambitions go back to the unification of Germany in 1861 and the coronation of Friedrich Wilhelm I as emperor in 1871.
The Berlin Conference & The Afrikahaus
In one of our previous video on the Berlin Conference of 1884-85, we explored how Germany sought to establish its presence on the global stage. During this period, The Afrikahaus was constructed between 1910 and 1911. Surprisingly, it wasn’t primarily the state that fueled colonial expansion but rather merchants and private citizens.
The German Colonial Society (DKG) was at the center of this movement, advocating for trade-friendly policies, providing businesses with information about African markets, and lobbying the government to facilitate overseas commerce.
Economic Motivations & The Role of Business
Many German businessmen sought colonies as a way to bypass taxes imposed by French and British colonial powers. They saw the economic rise of neighboring nations and wanted a share of the wealth—hence the phrase “wanting to eat bananas as well.” (Join one of our tours with CEO Justice to learn more about this phrase—book now! 😉).
This period saw the rise of companies such as:
EDEKA (1907)
Sarotti (1852)
Wörmann (1837)
While these companies emerged during the colonial era, their levels of involvement varied. Banks like Commerzbank (founded in 1870) indirectly supported colonial expansion by providing loans to merchants, facilitating business growth. Meanwhile, shipbuilding companies like HAMBURGER GROSSWERFTEN played a key role in transporting goods and people, maintaining Germany’s naval presence, and sustaining colonial ventures.
The Treaty of Versailles & The End of an Era
Germany’s colonial aspirations came to an abrupt halt with the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. Under immense pressure from France and Britain, Germany was forced to sign the treaty, marking a dramatic shift in its global standing.