Decolonization is the process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, often resulting in the establishment of sovereign states. This movement gained significant momentum in the mid-20th century as many countries in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean sought to reclaim their autonomy and cultural identity following years of foreign domination. Decolonization can involve political, social, and economic changes, as nations work to address the legacies of colonialism and assert their own governance and cultural practices. It often encompasses broader discussions about justice, reparations, and the right to self-determination.