decolonization

Definitions

The action or process of a state withdrawing from a former colony, leaving it independent.

The process of undoing the cultural, political, and economic influence of colonialism in a society.

Examples

The process of decolonization reshaped the political landscape of many African nations during the mid-twentieth century.

Scholars continue to debate the long-term cultural impacts of decolonization on indigenous communities worldwide.

Synonyms

independence liberation self-determination sovereignty emancipation decolonizing autonomy

Antonyms

colonization imperialism subjugation annexation occupation colonialism domination