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French Political Economic Interests In Francophone Africa: Weighing The Merits Of Dependency Theory And Modernist Theory In The Political And Economic Relations Between France And Her Former African Colonies, Cameron D. Pickett

Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019

This paper seeks to investigate France’s ongoing role in its former colonies. By assessing the practical application of Dependency Theory and Modernist Theory to two unique African states, Côte D’Ivoire and Gabon, I seek to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relative costs and benefits of French political and economic influence in these countries. An in-depth discussion of either case’s history and political ties with France will allow us to lay the groundwork for an investigation of French trade and foreign direct investment into both economies. To evaluate the costs and benefits I will consult key development indicators and democracy …