Decolonization of Africa
The Decolonization of Africa refers to the process by which African nations gained independence from colonial rule, primarily from European powers, following World War II. This period marked a significant transformation in African political and social landscapes.
Historical Context
- Pre-World War II: Before the war, most of Africa was under colonial rule, with territories divided among European Colonialism powers like Britain, France, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Germany.
- Post-World War II: The war weakened European economies and their capacity to maintain colonies. Additionally, international movements like the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement supported decolonization efforts.
Key Events and Processes
- 1941: Ethiopia was the first African country to regain independence from Italy after the Italian invasion in 1935.
- 1950s: The momentum for independence began with Gold Coast (now Ghana) becoming the first British colony in Africa to gain independence in 1957 under Kwame Nkrumah.
- 1960: Known as the "Year of Africa," when 17 African countries gained independence, including Congo, Nigeria, and Somalia.
- 1970s and 1980s: The last colonies to achieve independence included Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Portugal's colonies were the last to see decolonization due to the Carnation Revolution in Portugal in 1974.
Challenges and Legacy
- Economic and Political Instability: Newly independent states often faced challenges like economic dependency, political instability, and sometimes civil wars as they transitioned from colonial rule.
- Border Disputes: Colonial borders, often drawn arbitrarily, led to ongoing conflicts over territory and resources.
- Pan-Africanism: Movements like Pan-Africanism sought to unite Africans in their struggle against colonialism and later for economic and political unity.
- International Influence: The Cold War dynamics played a role, with the United States and Soviet Union backing different factions in newly independent states.
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