External Factors that Aided Nationalists in their Struggle for Political Independence in Africa

In this post, we shall look into the external factors that aided the independence of African nations. At the end of this lesson, students should be able to mention the external factors that helped nationalists in their struggle for independence in Africa.

External Factors that Aided Nationalists in their Struggle for Political Independence in Africa

The struggle for political independence in Africa was a significant historical movement, driven by various external factors.

These external factors, combined with internal determination and leadership, contributed to the eventual success of the struggle for political independence in Africa. The concerted efforts of nationalist movements across the continent resulted in the dismantling of colonial empires and the emergence of independent African nations.

Among the external factors that aided the nationalists in their quest for independence were:

1. The Atlantic Charter: The Atlantic Charter, announced in 1941 by the United States and the United Kingdom, emphasized the right to self-determination for all peoples. This declaration encouraged African nationalists in their struggle for independence, as it reinforced the notion that colonized peoples had the right to govern themselves.
2. The Anti-Colonial Stance of the United Nations: The United Nations, formed in 1945, took an anti-colonial posture and supported nations fighting for their independence. The UN’s stance provided moral and diplomatic support to African nationalists in their efforts to gain freedom from colonial rule.
3. The British Labour Party: The British Labour Party condemned and criticized British colonialism and imperialism, advocating for self-government in Africa. This support from within Britain served as a morale booster for African nationalists and added pressure on colonial powers to reconsider their policies.
4. The Defeat of Britain by Japan: During World War II, Britain suffered a military defeat at the hands of Japan, which diminished its prestige as a colonial power. This loss weakened Britain’s hold over its colonies and emboldened nationalist movements across Africa.
5. Independence of India in 1947: The successful independence movement in India inspired African nationalists to intensify their struggle. India’s attainment of independence demonstrated that achieving self-rule was possible through organized and persistent efforts.
6. Influence of Intellectual Ideas: Intellectuals from both Eastern and Western nations influenced African nationalist movements through their ideas and support. These informed ideas encouraged the nationalists to persevere in their struggle for independence.
7. Pan-Africanist Organizations: Pan-Africanist organizations, such as the Negro World Movement and the West African Students’ Union, played a crucial role in encouraging African nationalists. These organizations fostered a sense of solidarity among African people and advocated for collective efforts to attain independence.
8. Impact of World War II: The Second World War caused economic depression in the colonies, which affected the colonial powers’ ability to maintain control. The economic challenges exposed the exploitative nature of colonial rule, fueling nationalist movements seeking independence.