Question

Write short notes
Decolonisation

Hint:

Decolonisation was not just a political shift but also a cultural and economic transfor mation, as newly independent nations worked to reshape their identities and economies.

Answer 1

Decolonisation is the process through which colonies achieved independence from their colonial rulers. This process primarily unfolded in the 20th century, especially after World War II, as European powers weakened and nationalist movements in colonised territories gained momentum, leading to the disintegration of colonial empires.

Key Features of Decolonisation:

• Collapse of European Empires: Decolonisation saw the decline of European empires, including the British, French, Dutch, and Belgian empires. Landmark events like India’s independence in 1947 and the Algerian War of Independence (1954–1962) exemplified this global shift.
• Nationalist Movements: Independence movements were often spearheaded by nationalist leaders striving for political, social, and economic freedom from colonial rule. Prominent figures such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Kwame Nkrumah in Ghana, and Nelson Mandela in South Africa played critical roles in these movements.
• World War II’s Impact: The devastation caused by World War II weakened European powers economically and politically, diminishing their capacity to retain colonies. Concurrently, global pressure from organizations like the United Nations and shifting international dynamics accelerated decolonisation.
• Economic and Social Challenges: While decolonisation led to the creation of independent nations, it also introduced challenges such as political instability, economic difficulties, and the establishment of new borders that triggered ethnic and political tensions.

Decolonisation reshaped the political order of the 20th century, giving rise to new nations and bringing an end to colonial empires.