Final answer:
From the 1940s to 1955, African Nationalism saw significant shifts spearheaded by individuals like Alfred Xuma and movements like the Pan-African Congress. The growing sense of African identity and resistance against colonial exploitation fostered nationalist movements that precipitated the independence of various nations, most prominently illustrated by the Mau Mau Revolution in Kenya.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Changing Nature of African Nationalism
The period from the 1940s to the 1950s was a critical time for African Nationalism. Following World War II, African nations witnessed an increase in nationalist movements challenging European colonialism. A pivotal figure in this moment was Alfred Xuma who, through his 'African Claims' speech, advocated for greater African political participation and civil rights within South Africa. This period also saw the first Pan-African Congress in 1918, organized by W. E. B. Du Bois, sought to promote self-determination and unity among African peoples to achieve greater independence.
These nationalist sentiments were fueled by the exploitation and discrimination that African colonies faced, especially during the war efforts. Organizations like the National Congress of British West Africa (NCBWA) started demanding more African involvement in government. Meanwhile, figures like Marcus Garvey and W. E. B. Du Bois promoted Pan-Africanism and Negro nationalism. On the ground, these ideologies culminated in uprisings and protests, such as the Mau Mau Revolution in Kenya, which ultimately contributed to the end of British rule in 1963.
However, the journey for rights and autonomy was not smooth. Divisions and conflicts within the movement, such as those between the Black Panthers and the US Organization, reflected differing views on how to tackle African-American oppression. The cultural movement sought to reconnect people of African descent with their heritage, as seen through the work of scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and exhibitions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art's 'The African Origin of Civilization' show in 2021.