Analysis of European colonialism and colonization

Western European colonialism and colonization was the Western European policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over other societies and territories, exterminating the natives and populating it with Europeans, and exploiting the natives and natural resources. For example, colonial policies, such as the type of rule implemented, the nature of investments, and identity of the colonizers, are cited as impacting postcolonial states. Examination of the state-building process, economic development, and cultural norms and mores shows the direct and indirect consequences of colonialism on the postcolonial states. It has been estimated that Britain and France traced almost 50% of the entire length of today's international boundaries as a result of British and French imperialism.

History of colonization and decolonization

The era of European colonialism can be defined by two big waves of colonialism: the first wave began in the 15th century, during the Age of Discovery of some European powers vastly extending their reach around the globe by establishing colonies in the Americas, and Asia. The second wave began during the 19th century, centering around Africa, in what is called the Scramble for Africa. The dismantling of European empires following World War II saw the process of decolonization begin in earnest. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill jointly released the Atlantic Charter, which broadly outlined the goals of the U.S. and British governments. One of the main clauses of the charter acknowledged the right of all people to choose their own government. The document became the foundation for the United Nations and all of its components were integrated into the UN Charter, giving the organization a mandate to pursue global decolonization.