Among European powers, Portugal was one of the least aggressive in colonizing Africa compared to countries like Britain, France, and Belgium. While Portugal established some coastal trading posts and colonies, such as Angola and Mozambique, its overall colonial ambitions in Africa were more limited and focused on trade rather than extensive territorial expansion. This contrasts sharply with the more extensive and aggressive colonization efforts of other European nations during the Scramble for Africa in the late 19th century.
Portugal was the first European country to set up a colony in Africa. Portugal landed on Africa's Gold Coast in 1471 and built the Castle of Elmina, becoming the first European settlement.
Well, there may be various reasons why Africa was cololized in a rush. I believe it was because Africa had untouched resources both in terms of human and natural. And every country which believed in its power rushed to colonize Africa. Also, it could also be because Africans were relatively undeveloped which gave European an advantage and gave them an incentive to rush. Hope it helps!
The Scramble for Africa had its roots in European imperialism, driven by the desire for economic expansion, resources, and geopolitical power. In the late 19th century, European nations raced to colonize the African continent, often disregarding existing societies and cultures. This aggressive colonization was fueled by industrialization and the need for raw materials, leading to significant exploitation and lasting consequences for African nations. Ultimately, the Scramble for Africa laid the groundwork for many modern social and political challenges on the continent.
Nationalism played a part in Europe's competition to colonize Africa and Asia by fueling a sense of pride in their empires and a desire for expansion to showcase their power and dominance. European nations used nationalism to justify their colonial activities as a way to spread their influence, culture, and way of life to other parts of the world. This competition led to increased tension and conflicts between European powers as they vied for control of territories in Africa and Asia.
Spain was the first European power to colonize California.
Power and Money.
The Canary Islands several hundreds miles off the west coast of Africa are still under the control of a European power. The nation of Portugal exerts governmental control over them.
For resources and power.
No European countries own a "colony" in Africa anymore. Spain does, however, own two small cities in North Africa (they are not colonies, they are parts of Spain). France and the United Kingdom own some islands off the coast of Africa, as well.
Liberia was the only country in West Africa to not be colonized by a European Power as it already had a "legitimate" Western-style government.
Algeria is in Africa and lies next to Libya. It was a French colony once upon a time.
The European Nations placed mandates which places a country under the control of another power by international agreement.