The document discusses decolonization in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East from the 1920s to 1980s. Many regions freed themselves from European dominance after World War II weakened the colonial powers. Decolonization occurred earlier in Asia, with India gaining independence which became a model for other countries. While independence was achieved, newly independent nations still faced economic dependency and challenges from tribal, racial, and religious differences.

1. Independence movements in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East 1920s – 1980s

2. Overview By the mid-20 th century, many REGIONS in Africa, Asia and the Middle East had “freed” themselves from European dominance. Decolonization is the term historians have used to describe this process

3. CHINA One result of Mao and the communists taking over China was that China became “free” from Western control.

5. What happened? European withdrawal Revolutions Non-violent Independence Movements

6. Causes of Decolonization What forces led to the end of European colonial empires? Education and information acquired by Asians and Africans. World Wars WWI –fighting in the colonies WWII – left little desire for war Nationalism!

7. Trends in Decolonization Decolonization began earlier in asia India breaking from Britian became a pattern Leaders of independence movements were often the western educated elite

8. Decolonization The many differing African and Asian groups used a variety of elements in their efforts to gain independence.

10. “ Victory attained by violence is the same as defeat, for it is momentary.” Mohandas Gandhi “ You can kill ten of our men for every one we kill of yours. But even at those odds, you will lose and we will win.” Ho Chi Minh

12. RESULTS of Decolonization Regions of the world became “free”. the indigenous elite often replaced the colonial elite with little change for the masses. Problems remained Such as Economic Dependency on the West Limited Industrialization & Economic Development Tribal, racial, religious differences

13. What if? Generally speaking, Would Asia and Africa be more economically and politically solid today if Europeans had not colonized those regions in the 19 th century? Give Evidence from politics or economy to support your response.