The Scramble for Africa, which took place during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was a period of rapid colonization of the African continent by European powers. The major European nations involved included Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, and Spain.
While it is difficult to declare a single ‘winner’ of the Scramble for Africa, Britain and France emerged as the dominant colonial powers. Britain controlled vast territories, including Egypt, Sudan, South Africa, and Nigeria. France, on the other hand, established control over much of West and Central Africa, including areas like Algeria, Senegal, and the Congo.
Other nations also secured significant territories. Belgium, under King Leopold II, controlled the Congo Free State (modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo), while Germany and Italy acquired colonies in East and West Africa, as well as parts of Southern Africa.
In summary, the Scramble for Africa resulted in the colonization of nearly the entire continent by European powers, with Britain and France being the most influential. The legacy of this period continues to impact Africa’s political and social landscape today.