Africa’s history is often defined by colonisation, yet a few nations on the continent successfully maintained their sovereignty and were never formally colonised by European powers. These countries stand out for their resilience, strategic diplomacy, and unique historical circumstances:
- Ethiopia
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Known for its remarkable resistance against colonisation.
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Defeated Italy at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 under Emperor Menelik II.
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Maintained sovereignty despite a brief Italian occupation in 1936, which did not count as formal colonisation.
- Liberia
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Founded in the early 19th century by freed African-American slaves with support from the American Colonisation Society.
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Declared independence in 1847.
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Avoided European colonisation due to its unique founding and strong diplomatic ties with the United States.
Ethiopia and Liberia remain proud reminders that even in an era of widespread colonisation, independence was possible.