Berlin Conference of 1884-85

The Berlin Conference of 1884-85 was a gathering of European powers to organize and regulate their colonization of Africa. It aimed to prevent conflicts among themselves by establishing rules for claiming African territories, officially dividing the continent among European nations without African input. This process led to the rapid "Scramble for Africa," with borders drawn arbitrarily, often disregarding existing cultures and societies. The conference significantly impacted Africa's history, resulting in lasting political, social, and economic changes dictated by European interests.