What led to the decolonization of Africa in the mid-20th century?

The decolonization of Africa in the mid-20th century was primarily driven by nationalist movements and international pressure for independence. Following World War II, many African countries experienced a surge in nationalism as local populations sought to assert their identity and rights against colonial rule. This movement was characterized by a variety of protests, political mobilization, and, in some cases, armed struggles, all aimed at achieving self-governance.

Additionally, the international context played a vital role in this process. The post-war period saw the emergence of global discourse around human rights and self-determination, significantly influenced by the formation of the United Nations and its principles advocating for decolonization. The pressure from international organizations and shifting attitudes in former colonial powers, who were increasingly reluctant to maintain costly colonial administrations, contributed to the momentum for independence movements across the continent.

Economic factors in European countries, while significant, did not primarily drive the decolonization process; rather, they complicated it, as many powers were still recovering from the war. The rise of communism presented a different narrative but did not directly cause the decolonization in Africa, though it did influence some African leaders and political ideologies. The League of Nations, established after World War I, lacked the effective