The Berlin Conference took place in 1884-1885 and was significant for the division of Africa among European colonial powers. Convened by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, the conference aimed to establish guidelines for European colonization and trade in Africa, effectively formalizing the "Scramble for Africa." Attended by representatives of 14 nations, the conference disregarded the existing cultural and political landscapes of African nations, leading to arbitrary borders and deep social divisions. This had lasting consequences for the continent, contributing to conflicts and struggles for independence well into the 20th century.