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End of World War Two
Many post-colonial movements started after World War Two. Many natives of the colonies fought on behalf of the colonizers, and felt they deserved their independence in return. There are other reasons World War Two triggered resistance: the colonized became acutely aware that Europe clearly did not have the moral upper hand she claimed. -
Guinea: L'enfant Noir
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Cameroon: Une Vie de Boy
F. Oyono's Une Vie de Boy is the tragic story of a young African man who works as the "boy" of a high-ranking French guard. He slowly becomes aware of the devastating effects of colonialism in Cameroon. The author is one of the founders of the "Negritude" movement. -
Nigeria: Things Fall Apart
Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart was destined to become a classic. Achebe adds an African voice to the literary scene, with rich characters who defy any and all stereotying. -
Cameroon gains independence
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Guinea gains independence
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Algeria: Battle of Algiers is released
This film was written and acted by actual FLN revolutionaries; not surprisingly, it oozes authenticity. The Ennio Morricone score deserved its Oscar. -
Senegal: Such a Long Letter
Mariama Ba's Such a Long Letter is a classic of feminist post-colonial literature. Her heroine is a highly educated woman who celebrates the end of French control, but suffers from native Islamic practices like polygamy.
