Berlin Conference (1884-1885)

The Berlin Conference, held from 1884 to 1885, was a meeting of European powers to discuss the colonization and division of Africa. As countries competed for territory, they aimed to prevent conflict among themselves. No African representatives were invited, leading to decisions that disregarded local cultures and communities. The conference resulted in the "scramble for Africa," where European nations established colonies, often exploiting resources and causing disruptions to societies. This event significantly shaped Africa's political boundaries and legacy, with ongoing impacts that are still felt today.