- Colonial rule: Africans resented being ruled by foreign powers and desired self-determination and the ability to govern themselves.
- Lack of representation: Africans were often denied political representation and had little say in the decisions that affected their lives. They wanted to have a voice in their own affairs and to be treated as equal citizens.
Economic reasons:
- Exploitation: Africans were often subjected to harsh economic conditions and exploitation by European colonizers. They wanted control over their own resources and the ability to benefit from their own labor.
Social reasons:
- Discrimination: Africans faced racial discrimination and segregation under European colonial rule. They wanted to end these injustices and be treated with dignity and respect.
- Cultural preservation: Africans wanted to preserve their own cultural traditions and identities, which were often suppressed or disregarded by European colonizers.
Influence of global events:
- Decolonization movements: The success of decolonization movements in Asia and other parts of the world inspired Africans to fight for their own independence.
- Cold War: The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union led to increased global attention on Africa, and both superpowers supported African independence movements as part of their geopolitical strategies.
Overall, the desire for independence among Africans was driven by a combination of political, economic, social, and global factors. It was a complex and multifaceted struggle that eventually led to the decolonization of Africa and the establishment of independent African nations.