Decolonization:
- Decolonization is a historical and political process that unfolded primarily in the mid-20th century when many countries in Africa and Asia achieved independence from their colonial rulers.
- Decolonization had a profound impact on the political map of the world in the 20th century,
Dissolution of Colonial Empires:
- Decolonization marked the dismantling of colonial empires that had existed for centuries.
- European powers, such as Britain, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Portugal, among others, controlled vast overseas territories in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean.
- Decolonization led to the end of these colonial empires.
Emergence of Independent Nations:
- As colonial powers withdrew or were forced to relinquish control, numerous new independent nations emerged.
- Colonized territories gained sovereignty and established their own governments, often with new borders that were sometimes drawn along ethnic or geographic lines.
Redrawing of Borders:
- The process of decolonization involved the redrawing of political boundaries.
- New countries were created as colonial territories transitioned to independence.
- This redrawing of borders sometimes resulted in challenges, as it did not always align perfectly with the social and ethnic realities on the ground, leading to potential conflicts.
Increase in Sovereign States:
- The number of sovereign states on the world stage increased significantly as a result of decolonization.
- Prior to decolonization, many regions were under the direct or indirect control of colonial powers.
- Post-decolonization, these regions became independent nations with their own governments and international recognition.
