The event that brought an end to the era of imperialism in Africa was the wave of decolonization that occurred in the mid-20th century, particularly after World War II. Following the war, many African nations began to seek independence from colonial rule amid rising nationalist movements and global pressure for self-determination. Countries like Ghana became the first to gain independence in 1957, inspiring others to follow suit. This wave fundamentally reshaped the political landscape of Africa, leading to the establishment of numerous sovereign nations, the end of colonial exploitation, and the emergence of diverse governance systems, while also facing challenges of post-colonial development.