(Description) Figure 3 Cover of a 1900 textbook used in French schools. It is a visual depiction of the concept of the ‘civilising mission%%STARTOUTPUTCONTROL1:+mobile%%One of the rationales for the European imperial projects. The idea was that colonised places would be 'improved' by contact with what Europeans considered to be their 'superior' civilisation (political and legal system, culture and religion).%%ENDOUTPUTCONTROL1%%’. France is personified by a woman holding an olive branch, symbolising peace, and a shield indicating that French rule would spread progress, civilisation and trade. There is no indication of resistance instead, French colonials are being welcomed by the indigenous populations.

Session 2: Power

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A colour image of the cover of a 1900 textbook used in French schools. A white woman wearing armour holds a shield inscribed with the words 'Progress, civilisation, commerce' and an olive branch. She is standing at the centre of the image, in a boat approaching a beach. There are three white men in military uniforms behind her. Figures representing African, Arab, Asian and Chinese men are gathered around the boat on the beach, looking at her. Ships can be seen on the ocean in the background.