The era in modern history that focused on decolonization and national independence movements is primarily the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s to the 1970s. Following World War II, many colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean began to seek independence from European colonial powers, driven by nationalist sentiments and the belief in self-determination. Prominent figures, including Mahatma Gandhi in India and Jomo Kenyatta in Kenya, became symbols of resistance against colonial rule. International factors, such as the weakening of European powers and the influence of the United Nations advocating for decolonization, also played significant roles. This wave of independence fundamentally reshaped global political dynamics.