Essay Prompt: The Impact of Expansion and Colonization on African Countries

In a well-organized and researched essay, analyze the historical impact of European expansion and colonization on African countries. Your essay should explore the social, economic, and political consequences of colonization for African societies. Consider the following questions in your analysis:

1. What were the motivations behind European powers expanding into and colonizing African territories?
2. How did the introduction of European political structures and economic systems alter the pre-existing African societies?
3. In what ways did colonization impact the cultural identities and practices of African communities?
4. What were the long-term economic consequences of colonization for African countries, particularly in terms of trade, labor, and resource extraction?
5. How did the struggle for independence and the eventual decolonization process shape the modern political landscape of African countries?
6. What are the enduring legacies of colonization that continue to affect African countries today?

Use specific examples and evidence from historical events, figures, and countries to support your arguments. Be sure to address the complexities and nuances of this topic, acknowledging the diversity of experiences among different African nations and communities. Your conclusion should reflect on the broader implications of colonization for our understanding of global history and contemporary international relations.