States Free from Colonization in Africa During the Era of Imperialism

The era of imperialism saw the majority of Africa coming under foreign rule, but there were a few notable exceptions—states that remained free or largely independent. This was particularly true for Liberia and Ethiopia, which managed to resist colonization and maintain a degree of sovereignty. However, the historical context and realities surrounding these states during this period are complex and multifaceted.

Ethiopia: Independence Under Pressure

Ethiopia stands out as the largest and most notable state that managed to retain its independence during the height of the European colonization wave in Africa. Despite significant external pressures, Ethiopia succeeded in resisting Italian colonization efforts for a longer period than many other African nations. In fact, Emperor Haile Selassie, who famously declared Ethiopia to be 'irresistible' and 'unconquerable,' was a crucial figure in this resistance.

Haile Selassie's role extended beyond mere rhetoric; he actively fought against Italian incursions and colonization. The Italian campaign to colonize Ethiopia began in 1935, but Ethiopia managed to hold out for several years. Haile Selassie's leadership inspired his people and created a sense of national identity and resolve that helped repel the colonizers. This resistance inspired several African nations to rally against foreign domination.

Liberia: A Complicated Case of Independence

Liberia's situation is more complex and nuanced. Unlike Ethiopia, Liberia was never fully colonized by a European power, but it was still heavily influenced and managed by American and colonial interests. Liberia was established as a settlement by freed African Americans in the early 19th century, under the auspices of the American Colonization Society (ACS). This arrangement initially positioned Liberia as a protectorate of the United States, rather than a full colony.

However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Liberia began to function more like a de facto colony, with legalized oppression of Native African populations. The Liberian political system was marked by a significant racial divide, with American-born settlers (known as Americo-Liberians) occupying the upper echelons of power and oppressing the indigenous, Native-born African population. This practice persisted until the end of World War II, when advancements in the global anti-colonial movement and support from the United Nations accelerated the decolonization process.

Other Exceptions During Imperialism

While Liberia and Ethiopia were the most prominent examples of states that managed to maintain their sovereignty, a few other regions in Africa had a similar experience. Some African states established protectorates with European powers, but these protectorates often came with strict conditions that limited their autonomy. In some cases, these protectorates were not as detrimental to local sovereignty as full colonization.

It is important to note that the term 'colony' can be defined in various ways, and some regions were formally independent but were heavily influenced by European powers. For instance, some territories were declared protectorates, meaning the local rulers retained formal power but were required to adhere to certain European-imposed conditions. These conditions often allowed for significant intervention and oversight by the colonial powers.

Conclusion

The era of imperialism in Africa was marked by a significant colonizing effort that affected most of the continent. However, Liberia and Ethiopia were notable exceptions. While Ethiopia successfully resisted Italian colonization through strategic leadership and national pride, Liberia, despite never being fully colonized, was deeply influenced and managed by American and colonial interests. The historical experiences of these states provide valuable insights into the nature of African independence and the complex interactions between local populations and foreign powers during this transformative period.