The wave of independence for European colonies in Africa primarily began in the mid-20th century, notably accelerating from the late 1940s through the 1970s. Countries such as Ghana claimed independence in 1957, becoming the first Sub-Saharan African nation to free itself from colonial rule, which inspired other nations to follow suit. A combination of factors, including World War II weakening colonial powers, the rise of nationalist movements, and changing international attitudes about self-determination, facilitated this push for independence. The resulting decolonization significantly reshaped the political landscape of Africa, leading to the emergence of numerous independent states.