Final answer:
The 1970s saw a major shift as African nations gained independence from European colonial rule, prompted by nationalism and shifts in global power post-World War II. Decolonization efforts were supported by the United Nations but left many African nations grappling with the aftermath of colonial borders and economic challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Decolonization of Africa during the 1970s
As European colonial control of Africa diminished during the 1970s, significant political and social changes occurred across the continent. After enduring decades, and in some places centuries, of European rule, African nations fought for and gained independence. This shift away from colonialism was due, in part, to various movements of nationalism and the desire for self-determination among the colonized people. The end of World War II saw many European powers financially and economically depleted, prompting changes in their ability to sustain overseas colonies.
The United Nations, established in 1945, had one of its goals to oversee the decolonization process. However, despite steps towards independence and self-rule, many African nations struggled with the aftermath of arbitrarily drawn borders from the Berlin Conference—a result of the 'Scramble for Africa'—which led to ongoing political and social turmoil within the continent.
Over time, as the African countries declared independence, they faced challenges in developing infrastructure, political organizations, and economic sectors due to a lack of resources and ongoing economic dominance by Western nations through foreign investments and control of African natural resources.