Final answer:
In 1884, 14 European nations decided to divide Africa among themselves at the Berlin Conference, marking a significant stage in the colonisation of Africa. This led to the 'Scramble for Africa', with Europe ending up control over 90 percent of the continent. Efforts for African peoples to assert control over their own governance developed later, and many nations gained independence in the mid-20th century.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 1884, during what came to be known as the Berlin Conference, 14 European nations made critical decisions about the continent of Africa. The main action was not to establish an African government, grant independence to African nations, or abolish slavery, but rather to divide Africa among European powers. This was an expedient for the nations involved to exploit Africa's raw materials and open new markets for their goods.
Africa was, unfortunately, seen as the prize during the Industrial Revolution because of its rich natural resources. By the end of the 19th century, Europe controlled 90 percent of Africa due to the 'Scramble for Africa', which saw these nations competing to establish colonies and maintain economic superiority. This period marked a significant stage in the colonisation of Africa, with boundaries being arbitrarily drawn without any consultation with African people.
Attempts to assert African involvement in colonial government developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s, but it was not until the mid-20th century that many colonized countries in Africa gained independence. However, the legacy of decisions made at the Berlin Conference, which prioritized Western interests over indigenous territories, continues to affect Africa today.
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