Colonization of Africa
Since the earliest days of human existence, Africa has been home to numerous societies and states. Yet, throughout history various foreign powers, such as the ancient Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, have laid claim to African territory. The most extreme example was the colonization of Africa by European powers from the late 19th century, which itself was an intensification of efforts that had begun centuries earlier and which occurred during an era of global exploration and a quest for colonies throughout the world. By 1914 European countries had collectively claimed about 90 percent of the African continent.
The Advent of Colonialism and the Scramble for Africa
Noteworthy Conflicts During the Colonial Period
The Decolonization Process: Key Events, Dates, and People
Decolonization in Africa happened over several decades in the 20th century, with more than half of European colonies gaining independence in the 1960s alone. It was fueled by rising nationalistic sentiments among African people and the post-World War II landscape that saw European powers faced with financial constraints, domestic opposition to maintaining colonies, and increasing anti-colonial pressure on the international stage, particularly from the United States and the Soviet Union. In response, many European countries began preparing plans—or accelerated existing plans—to withdraw from their colonial holdings. The process varied by the European power and colony: some colonies had a gradual, relatively peaceful path to independence, whereas others gained independence abruptly or endured lengthy liberation wars.
Africa After Decolonization
Decolonization had a significant impact on international relations, which in turn affected political and economic development in postcolonial Africa. New international and regional organizations emerged, and global alliances shifted. Frameworks were created by which one could attempt to assess the relative prosperity and power of the world’s countries. Some African countries navigated new trade partnerships and political alliances with the United States, the former Soviet Union, and other countries. Others remained economically dependent on former colonial powers, which allowed the latter to retain influence there. Over the years new relationships developed, with China and Russia notably expanding their influence on the continent.
Influences on Postcolonial Africa
