Final answer:
The correct answer is option b. colonial rulers helped the colony transition to being independent.
Step-by-step explanation:
The post-World War II period marked a significant transformation as African colonies began their transition to independent nations. Despite the general trend of civil unrest and conflict during these transitions, some countries like Kenya were able to avoid civil war immediately after achieving independence. One factor that might explain this relative stability can be attributed to the manner in which the colonial rulers assisted the transition. In regions where European powers took steps to gradually prepare the colony for self-governance, less violence ensued.
For instance, the British, despite the Mau Mau uprising, eventually provided support to set up a peaceful transition to independence in Kenya. Moreover, after gaining independence, some countries aligned with either the United States or the Soviet Union, seeking protection and support during the Cold War era, which could deter internal conflicts from escalating into a full-blown civil war.
Additionally, the lasting influences of colonialism, including the establishment of structured governments and processes, may have contributed to the relatively smoother transitions in some cases. This was not uniform across all African states, but the varied degrees of colonial influences played a role in the initial stability of newly independent nations. Furthermore, intervention by neighboring African countries and the presence of imperial troops were less significant overall in preventing civil wars in the immediate aftermath of independence.