Discuss the similarities and differences between British, French and Portuguese decolonization in terms of the strategies used:armed resistance, negotiations, external pressures, the wish of the colonial power to leave, or a combination of all the above mentioned?

Answer 1

British, French, and Portuguese decolonization processes differed based on the strategies used to achieve independence. Here are some similarities and differences between the three colonial powers:

Similarities:
1. Armed resistance: All three colonial powers faced armed resistance from indigenous populations seeking independence. In many cases, armed struggle was a key factor in pressuring the colonial powers to grant independence.

2. Negotiations: Negotiations played a significant role in the decolonization processes of all three countries. In some cases, the colonial powers negotiated with indigenous leaders or nationalist movements to transfer power peacefully.

3. External pressures: External pressures, such as international condemnation of colonialism and support for independence movements, also influenced the decolonization process for all three countries.

Differences:
1. British decolonization: The British decolonization process was largely characterized by a gradual transition of power through negotiations and the granting of independence to former colonies. The British Empire adopted a policy of peaceful decolonization, with some exceptions like the Mau Mau Uprising in Kenya.

2. French decolonization: French decolonization involved a combination of armed resistance and negotiations with nationalist movements. The French Empire faced significant challenges in Algeria, where a long and bloody war of independence ultimately led to the country gaining independence in 1962.

3. Portuguese decolonization: Portuguese decolonization was marked by a longer and more violent struggle for independence in its African colonies. The Portuguese government resisted granting independence to its colonies and engaged in prolonged conflicts in Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau, which only ended in the mid-1970s.

In conclusion, while all three colonial powers faced similar challenges during the decolonization process, the strategies used to achieve independence varied significantly. The British favored peaceful negotiations, the French adopted a mix of armed resistance and negotiations, and the Portuguese resisted decolonization for a longer period, leading to prolonged conflicts in its colonies.