Decolonisation is the process of ending foreign rule, achieving political independence, and establishing sovereignty.
Factors Leading to Global Decolonisation
- World Wars Impact:
- Europe was weakened economically and militarily.
- Colonies were promised independence for their support.
- The Atlantic Charter (1941) and Versailles Treaty (1919) promoted self-determination.
- War veterans returned enlightened and led anti-colonial efforts.
- Japan’s victories inspired colonised nations to resist European rule.
- Rise of Nationalism:
- Nationalist movements and educated elites (e.g., Banda, Kenyatta, Nkrumah, Gandhi) pushed for independence.
- Western education empowered leaders to organise and resist.
- External Pressure:
- USA promoted democracy, capitalism, and new markets.
- USSR promoted communism, anti-colonialism, and sought influence.
- Urbanisation and Working Class:
- Towns facilitated political mobilisation through trade unions and nationalist parties.
- Pan-Africanism:
- Marcus Garvey’s “Africa for Africans” inspired self-rule movements.