The Berlin Conference was held in 1884-1885 and is notable for its role in the partition of Africa among European powers. Convened by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, the conference aimed to regulate European colonization and trade in Africa, establishing rules for the acquisition of African territories to prevent conflict among European nations. By the end of the conference, significant portions of Africa were claimed by countries like Britain, France, and Germany, often disregarding the existing ethnic and cultural boundaries. This division had lasting impacts on African societies and contributed to various political and social challenges throughout the continent's history.