France established its first African colony in 1830 when it invaded and captured Algiers, the capital of present-day Algeria. This invasion marked the beginning of a more extensive French colonial presence in North Africa and was motivated by a combination of economic interests and national prestige. Over the following decades, France expanded its colonial footprint throughout Africa, establishing control over vast territories. This growth significantly impacted both the indigenous populations and France itself, as it influenced economic exploitation, cultural exchanges, and later led to resistance movements in these colonies. The effects of this colonial history are still felt in contemporary relationships between France and African nations.