Conflict Diamonds and Human Rights in Africa
Grade 8th Grade · Social Studies · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can explain how conflict diamonds contribute to human rights abuses in Africa.
Warm-Up Video
Real JeRi · 11:41
Why Is Congo So Rich But Still So Poor?
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) possesses vast reserves of minerals like cobalt, copper, and diamonds, yet it remains one of the poorest countries in the world.
- 2
The DRC's history of exploitation includes brutal colonial rule under King Leopold II of Belgium, followed by Cold War conflicts and the kleptocracy of Mobutu Sese Seko, leading to widespread corruption and instability.
- 3
The ongoing conflict in the DRC is fueled by the trade in "conflict minerals" such as gold, coltan, tin, and tungsten, with foreign companies and neighboring countries exploiting the country's resources while contributing to human rights abuses and environmental degradation.
Practice Questions
7 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain one way that conflict minerals, like diamonds, contribute to human rights abuses in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
