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African kingdoms, such as Mali, Ghana, and Songhai, thrive with trade, governance, and culture.
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European explorers (Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, British, and French) establish coastal trade posts, focusing on gold, ivory, and slaves.
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The transatlantic slave trade devastates African societies, with millions forcibly taken to the Americas.
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Berlin Conference: European powers (Britain, France, Germany, Portugal, Belgium, etc.) divide Africa without African input.
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British and Dutch settlers (Boers) fight for control of South Africa.
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European countries establish direct control over African territories, exploiting resources and labor.
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Nearly all of Africa, except Ethiopia and Liberia, is under European rule.
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African nationalist movements emerge, demanding rights and self-governance.
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Ghana becomes the first African country to gain independence from Britain.
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Known as the "Year of Africa," 17 African countries gain independence.
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Portugal grants independence to Angola, Mozambique, and other colonies after the Carnation Revolution.
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Namibia gains independence from South Africa.
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Apartheid ends in South Africa; Nelson Mandela becomes president.