Decolonization
Definition
Decolonization is the process by which colonies become independent from their colonial rulers. It often involves significant political, cultural, and economic changes.
Analogy
Imagine if your parents suddenly told you that you're now responsible for everything in your life - cooking meals, paying bills etc., That's kind of what decolonization was like for colonies; they had to figure out how to govern themselves independently after years under control.
Related terms
Imperialism: This is policy or ideology by which a nation extends its power over other lands through force or diplomacy.
Nationalism: This is an ideology that emphasizes loyalty, devotion or allegiance to a nation or nation-state.
Post-colonialism: This term describes conditions shared by nations that were once colonies but have since gained independence.
"Decolonization" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (3)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (20+)
Which factor occupied imperial powers and eventually led to the decolonization of the world?
Which event(s) played a significant role in enabling indigenous nationalistic movements to prosper during the process of decolonization?
How did France's colonial approach differ from Portugal's during decolonization following World War II?
What was a significant outcome from decolonization following WWII?
What differentiates the impacts of World War I from World War II with respect to decolonization?
Which French President played a key role during decolonization and development of EU institutions in the mid-twentieth century?
What is considered one of the primary reasons for decolonization after World War II?
What contributed significantly to decolonization efforts in Africa during the Cold War era?
What could be the possible scenario if decolonization didn't occur after World War II?
How does post-colonial theory interpret the decolonization efforts in Africa during this period?
What was a major effect of decolonization efforts in Africa and Asia post-WWII on Western Europe?
What was one impact of decolonization on European countries after WWII?
How did decolonization impact most Western European powers following WWII?
What was an unexpected consequence of decolonization following World War II?
How did decolonization impact the dynamics between Western powers and Soviet Union during the Cold War?
What was a significant impact of decolonization in Africa and Asia on European powers after World War II?
How did Decolonization influence geopolitical relations during the period when two superpowers emerged?
How could decolonization after World War II differ if colonial powers had decided to maintain their colonies rather than granting independence?
From a post-colonial perspective, why did Western Europe support decolonization after World War II?
How did decolonization after WWII indirectly contribute to mass atrocities in Europe?
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