Final answer:
The correct statements about European colonization of Africa are that ``Most of Africa had been claimed by European powers by 1800 `` and ``Colonizers started by claiming coastal regions, then moved inward.``
The correct option is D. (I and III)
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that "Most of Africa had been claimed by European powers by 1800" is incorrect. By 1800, only a small portion of Africa had been colonized by European powers. The majority of Africa remained under indigenous African control.
European colonization of Africa began in the late 19th century, during the period known as the Scramble for Africa. European powers, including Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, and Italy, sought to expand their empires and control African territories for resources, trade, and strategic purposes.
The second statement, "Colonizers started by claiming coastal regions, then moved inward," is generally accurate. European colonizers initially focused on establishing control over coastal areas, mainly for trade purposes. They established trading posts, forts, and colonies along the coast, using them as bases for further expansion into the interior of Africa.
However, it's important to note that colonization strategies varied among European powers and different regions of Africa. Some colonizers, like the Portuguese, had earlier established control over coastal regions, while others, such as the British and French, expanded inland from their coastal possessions.
The correct option is D. (I and III)