Decolonisation. The end of the European empires.

Decolonisation refers to the process of the end of European colonial empires when former colonies gained independence after World War II.

6 factors that caused decolonisation:

World War II: The devastation of World War II weakened many colonial powers, making it difficult for them to maintain control over distant territories. The war also showed that there were contradictions in European colonialism, as European powers fought for freedom and self-determination while denying the same to their colonies.

Changing expectations: After the war the idea of self-determination became more popular as the UN Charter emphasised the rights of peoples to determine their own political status. This put pressure on colonial powers to grant independence to their colonies.

Economics: After the war, many colonial powers were broke and could not maintain expensive distant colonies. Also, colonies had often been economically exploited, and they demanded economic equity and control over resources

Rise of Nationalism: Colonised people began to assert their own identities and cultures through seeking self-governance and independence. They often mobilised mass protests, strikes, and other forms of resistance against colonial rule. Colonial powers including Britain, France, and the United States also had civil rights movements that wanted an end to inequality and injustice at home and in their colonies.

Education: As literacy rates increased and information became more accessible, people in colonised territories became more aware of the unjust nature of colonial rule.

The Cold War: The United States and the Soviet Union sought to gain influence over newly independent nations. The former colonial powers often granted independence to their colonies hoping to maintain their own alliances and influence.

To do: Introduction to Decolonisation

1. Explain the growing support for decolonisation after WW2 to me like I am five.

2. Write a brief paragraph (200 words) explaining why decolonisation probably would have occurred without WW2? (5 reasons)