Decolonization of Africa

For many years, European countries controlled most of Africa. They took resources and made rules for the African people. Starting in the 1950s and 1960s, African nations began fighting for their freedom. Today, Africa has 54 independent countries.

The Colonial Era

In the late 1800s, European countries divided up almost all of Africa among themselves. They drew borders without asking the African people. European rulers controlled the land, mines, and trade. Many Africans were treated unfairly under colonial rule.

Winning Independence

After World War 2, independence movements grew stronger across Africa. Ghana became one of the first African countries to gain independence in 1957. Many other countries followed in the 1960s. Leaders like Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere inspired their people to seek freedom.

Fun Facts

• 1960 is called the "Year of Africa" because 17 African countries gained independence that year.
• Ghana was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule.
• Africa has 54 countries, more than any other continent.

Did You Know?

Ethiopia is one of the only African countries that was never colonized by a European power.