ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the trajectory of the independence of West African states, specifically as the political history of West Africa differs from other regions on the continent in some ways. Whereas colonialism and European incursion into the continent impacted the cultures, geographies, and development of the entire continent, West Africa's prominent role in the transatlantic slave trade, intercontinental trade, and intracontinental commerce made it a prime location of colonial interest. However, the imposition of imperial dominions in West Africa did not go unchallenged. From the onset of colonialism in the late nineteenth century, the people waged wars of resistance to stop the establishment of colonial control. As the population was forced to endure centuries of foreign intervention within the countries of West Africa, the acquisition of Western education played a major role in the formation of political movements and the organization of anti-colonial demonstrations. Ideas related to nationalism, racial justice and equity were promulgated further after the Second World War and prompted the establishment of political parties and economically incentivized groups to place Africans and African needs at the center of their policies. Eventually, in a staggered fashion, these countries achieved independence from the white colonialists and their prejudiced regimes.
