South SudanSouth Sudan has only been independent since 2011, but is on the brink of collapse. Why is this happening? The country has abundant resources (Sarwar 177; Ploch 16) and gained independence after decades of conflict (Sarwar 172-174). To begin to understand the situation, we need to examine the early history of Sudan (Zambakari 516; Jok 69). Its place in African continental history is also important because most of the continent developed under colonialism. South Sudan's independence on July 9, 2011 created a nation immediately at risk due to its colonial history, diverse populations in opposition and fragile infrastructure. (Working Thesis Statement) To succeed, South Sudan must overcome its history of colonialism and armed conflict and proceed on legal grounds, otherwise it will be doomed to failure. The nation must provide a secure state. It should use its abundant resources to build infrastructure and adhere to sound policies to ensure stability. (Working counterargument) South Sudan's Independence Day is not yet a date to celebrate. The country's outlook is bleak as it is considered a pre-failed nation due to its history and leadership. It is living up to the most negative predictions as it approaches its third anniversary. Sudan and South SudanAlmost the entire African continent was colonized starting in 1880 by European countries in search of resources and wealth during the "Scramble for Africa". The General Act of the Berlin Conference on West Africa in 1885 formalized the borders of all of Africa. The lines drawn had nothing to do with actual indigenous settlements. National interests and speculation prevailed. Motivated by the industrial revolution, capitalism, military progress and t...... middle of document ......tch, Inc., March 6, 2014. Web. relieveweb. “South Sudan Crisis Situation Report No. 30 (as of 3 April 2014).” OCHA, 3 April 2014. Web. Sarwar, Nadia. “Post-independence South Sudan: an era of hope and challenges.” Strategic Studies 32.2-3 (2012): 172-82. Web.UN cartographic section. "Political map of the Republic of Sudan." One World Nations Online, 2014. Web. United Nations. “Map No. 4450 Rev. 1 United Nations October 2011.” South Sudan. Np, nd Web.United Nations. “UNMISS Facts and Figures – United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan.” UN News Center, 2014. Web.Warner, Lesley A. “Force reduction key to South Sudan's military transformation.” World Politics Review. November 5, 2012. Web.Zambakari, Christopher. “South Sudan: Institutional Legacy of Colonialism and the Creation of a New State.” Journal of North African Studies 17.3 (2012): 515-32. Net.