Correct Option: A. Rwanda
Explanation of the Correct Answer
Rwanda is a non-British colony that is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The Commonwealth is a political association of 54 member states, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. However, not all Commonwealth members are former British colonies. Rwanda is a notable example of this.
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Rwanda's Commonwealth Membership: Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009. It is unique because it was never a British colony; it was a Belgian colony until it gained independence in 1962. Rwanda's membership in the Commonwealth is based on its commitment to the values of democracy, human rights, and development, which are central to the Commonwealth's mission.
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Historical Context: Rwanda's colonial history is significant. After World War I, Rwanda was administered by Belgium under a League of Nations mandate. The country faced significant challenges during and after colonial rule, including ethnic tensions that eventually led to the tragic genocide in 1994. Rwanda's post-genocide recovery and development have been remarkable, and its decision to join the Commonwealth reflects its desire to engage with a broader international community.
Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect
B. Guinea-Bissau:
- Guinea-Bissau is not a member of the Commonwealth. It was a Portuguese colony until it gained independence in 1973. While it is a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), it does not have any ties to the Commonwealth.
C. Mozambique:
- Mozambique is also not a member of the Commonwealth. Like Guinea-Bissau, it was a Portuguese colony and gained independence in 1975. Mozambique is a member of the CPLP but has not joined the Commonwealth.
D. Eritrea:
- Eritrea is not a member of the Commonwealth. It was an Italian colony and later a federation with Ethiopia before becoming an independent nation in 1993. Eritrea has not sought membership in the Commonwealth and is not associated with it.
Summary of Key Points
- Rwanda is the correct answer as it is a non-British colony that is a member of the Commonwealth.
- Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009, despite being a former Belgian colony.
- Other options (Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, and Eritrea) are not Commonwealth members and have different colonial histories.
- Understanding the Commonwealth's membership criteria and historical context is crucial for identifying its members accurately.
Revision Summary
- Rwanda is a non-British colony and a member of the Commonwealth.
- It joined the Commonwealth in 2009, emphasizing democratic values.
- Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, and Eritrea are not Commonwealth members.
- Familiarity with colonial histories helps clarify Commonwealth membership.