Overview
This lecture reviews the process of decolonization after World War II, detailing its phases, methods, and the challenges faced by newly independent states.
World Situation Before Decolonization
- In 1939, most of the world was under European colonial domination.
- The Second World War weakened colonial powers and destabilized the colonial system.
Phases and Support of Decolonization
- Decolonization began after WWII with the rise of nationalist movements.
- The process was supported by the United States, USSR, and the UN Charter (which promoted anti-colonialism).
- Two main phases: 1945–1955 in Asia, 1955–1965 in Africa.
Paths to Independence
- Countries gained independence either through negotiations or conflict.
- In 1947, Britain negotiated Indian independence, but this led to violent internal clashes.
- French colonies like Tunisia, Morocco, and parts of sub-Saharan Africa gained independence in the 1950s.
- Some colonies, like Indochina (1954) and Algeria (1962), required wars to achieve independence.
Emergence of New States and International Movements
- Newly independent states sought international recognition and influence.
- The 1955 Bandung Conference united 29 African and Asian nations against colonialism and new forms of domination.
- The political concept of the "Third World" was born at this time.
- The 1961 Belgrade Conference formalized the Non-Aligned Movement, rejecting Cold War bloc politics.
Challenges After Independence
- New states faced economic fragility and political instability.
- Many suffered from ongoing economic domination, termed neocolonialism.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Decolonization — The process by which colonies become independent from colonial powers.
- Nationalist movements — Groups seeking independence for their nation from foreign rule.
- Bandung Conference — A 1955 meeting of Asian and African nations to oppose colonialism.
- Non-Aligned Movement — Alliance of countries not formally aligned with any major power bloc during the Cold War.
- Neocolonialism — Continued economic or political dominance of former colonies by former colonial powers.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review specifics on the Bandung and Belgrade Conferences.
- Study examples of negotiated vs. violent independence movements.
- Understand the term "neocolonialism" and its relevance to post-independence challenges.