Who is Cecil Rhodes and why is he famous?

Rhodes was an imperialist, businessman and politician who played a dominant role in southern Africa in the late 19th Century, driving the annexation of vast swathes of land. He founded the De Beers diamond firm which until recently controlled the global trade.

What was the main goal of Cecil Rhodes?

His famous desire was to be able to draw a “red line” from Cairo to Cape Town, building a railway across the entire continent of Africa without ever leaving British territory. Rhodes wanted to create an international movement to extend British influence.

Why was Cecil Rhodes statue removed?

Afrikaner students wanted the statue removed because Rhodes was a British imperialist who wanted to continue British rule in South Africa, and considered the Afrikaner population to be less-than the British.

Was Rhodesia part of the British Empire?

Southern Rhodesia then remained a de jure British colony until 1980. However, the Southern Rhodesia government issued a Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) in 1965 and established Rhodesia, an unrecognised state.

Why was Cecil Rhodes significant in the growth of the British Empire?

Rhodes brought large amounts of wealth to Britain, and he himself became rich from resources found in South Africa. He led the way in British patriotism and imperialism and dreamed of a British territory which stretched from ‘Cape to Cairo’ and of a railway that would greatly enhance transport for British trade.

How much money did Cecil Rhodes give to Oxford?

Rhodes died in 1902, and in his will donated today’s equivalent of nearly 12 million pounds — about $17 million — to Oriel College.

Who pays for Rhodes Scholarships?

Scholarship terms The scholarship’s basic tenure is two years. However, it may also be held for one year or three years. Applications for a third year are considered during the course of the second year. University and college fees are paid by the Rhodes Trust.