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why did the pan African movement start

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Answered by GPT-4o mini
The Pan-African movement started in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the widespread oppression and marginalization of people of African descent worldwide, particularly due to colonialism, slavery, and racism. Its origins can be traced to a variety of factors:

1. **Colonialism and Imperialism**: The colonization of African countries by European powers led to the exploitation of resources and people, creating a sense of shared oppression among Africans and the African diaspora. This solidarity fostered the idea that African people should unite against colonial rule and seek independence.

2. **Racial Discrimination**: The African diaspora experienced systemic racism and discrimination in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States and the Caribbean. Activists sought to challenge these injustices and advocate for civil rights, which contributed to the Pan-African sentiment.

3. **Cultural Identity**: The movement emphasized a collective African identity that transcended geographic and national borders. This was a response to the fragmentation caused by colonial boundaries and aimed to reclaim and celebrate African culture, heritage, and history.

4. **Intellectual and Political Influences**: Influential figures like W.E.B. Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, and later leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere articulated the goals of the movement. They called for African unity and self-determination, inspiring many to join the cause.

5. **Conferences and Organizations**: The Harlem Renaissance and various Pan-African Congresses, beginning in 1900, provided platforms to discuss issues affecting Africans and people of African descent globally. These gatherings helped solidify the movement’s goals and strategies.

6. **Desire for Independence**: By the mid-20th century, the movement gained momentum as African nations sought independence from colonial rule. Pan-Africanism played a crucial role in the liberation movements across the continent.

Overall, the Pan-African movement was driven by a desire for unity, justice, and empowerment among Africans and those of African descent globally, fostering a sense of shared responsibility in addressing common challenges.
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