Decolonization During the Cold War

Overview

Focus on decolonization as a major development alongside the Cold War.
Two primary methods of gaining independence:
- Negotiated Independence
- Armed Struggle

Was a significant colony of Britain.
Britain's investment in infrastructure led to a growing, educated middle class.
Formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885 to seek more influence.
Despite contributions in WWI, British largely ignored Indian demands.
Nonviolent resistance movement led by Mohandas Gandhi.
WWII further increased demand for independence.
India gained independence in 1947 due to Britain's war exhaustion and pro-independence sentiment.
Partition of India: Led to the creation of Pakistan due to Muslim minority fears.
- Massive violence during partition with estimates of hundreds of thousands to over a million deaths.

Similar situation to India; led by Kwame Nkrumah.
Lack of British resources and support for imperialism led to Ghana's independence in 1957.

French resistance to independence due to large European settler population.
National Liberation Front formed by Arabs and Berbers initiated violent attacks from 1954.
Marked by brutality and human rights abuses from French troops.
Independence achieved in 1962 after negotiations led by President Charles de Gaulle.

Former Portuguese colony with several political groups opposing colonial rule.
Violence erupted due to inhumane treatment and political disputes.
Achieved independence in 1975 after a bloodless coup in Portugal.
Post-independence civil war due to ideological and ethnic divides, influenced by Cold War dynamics.

Colonial Boundaries: Often disregarded ethnic and religious divisions, leading to conflict.
Nigeria's example:
- Achieved independence in 1960.
- Civil war from 1967 due to Igbo people's secession attempt, motivated by control over oil-rich lands.
- Ultimately resulted in a unified Nigeria by 1970.

Additional resources such as AP World History review guides are available for deeper study and exam preparation.