European imperialism in the 19th century had profound impacts on African societies, leading to significant political, economic, and social changes. Colonizing powers partitioned the continent through the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, disregarding existing ethnic and cultural boundaries, which often created conflicts and disrupted traditional governance systems. Economic exploitation resulted from the extraction of resources and the establishment of cash crops, resulting in the decline of local industries and economies. Furthermore, imperialism imposed foreign cultural practices and religions, undermining indigenous cultures. The long-lasting ramifications included social dislocation, resistance movements, and ultimately independence struggles that characterized much of the 20th century in Africa.