Final answer:
African nations such as Ghana, Kenya, and Algeria gained independence from their European colonizers post-World War II. The process was often marred by conflict as these nations struggled to establish stable political systems and cope with economic challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decolonization of African nations represents a significant chapter in world history, illustrating the transition from colonies to independent countries. Ghana, led by Kwame Nkrumah, became the first Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from British rule in 1957. Following this, other British colonies, such as Kenya, achieved independence after a prolonged freedom struggle exemplified by the Mau Mau Uprising, with Kenya gaining its independence in 1963. French colonies also sought independence fervently, with Madagascar and Cameroon breaking free from French colonial rule after significant revolts and loss of life. Algeria's fight for independence was notably prolonged and bloody, lasting from 1954 to 1962. These newly independent nations often faced challenges like civil war, economic instability, and the need to establish stable political systems.
In contrast to British and French retreats from Africa, Portugal clung to its colonies, such as Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau, resulting in protracted wars of independence with significant involvement from nationalist and Marxist liberation movements. The transition to independence often meant that African countries needed to establish statehood in terms resembling European models, including defined territories, capitals, and national symbols, as an acknowledgment of sovereignty.