Jansen and Osterhammel Reflection History Essay Paper

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Decolonization has a long history way back during the first world war. The term decolonization is often used to describe the dissolving empire in the political aspect. It is the period wherein colonialism starts to decline. Some define decolonization as shifting to local power from a colonial rule. This does not only deal with the political aspect, but it also encompasses cultural and economic dimensions.
Significant events have significantly contributed to the history of decolonization tracing back to World War I. Decolonization started around this time and progressed rapidly over time, wherein the trend can be recognized after the Second World War. Understanding the history of decolonization, the event since the First World War should be noted. The author mentioned several reasons with this approach – anticolonial unrest, the internationalization of colonialism, and the project and expectations of reform.
During world war I, there have been quite a few anticolonial protests in countries such as in Europe and Asia. Anticolonial protest movements have intensified, especially towards the final phase of the war. This was recognized as the “crisis of empire” wherein imperial order was disturbed all over the world. With the internationalization of colonialism, the idea of self-determination has been used as the basis to strengthened efforts towards anticolonial movements among countries. It was highlighted that the people could only be governed and controlled with their consent during the postwar order that contributed to the decolonization in the following years. In addition to this, the colonial empires were pressured to give reforms during the war. This was influenced more due to the imperial resources being mobilized. Several political reforms towards efficient and responsible government were guaranteed. These reforms, promises, and expectations towards a new world order were significant references that influenced protest movements in the following decades.
Decolonization has not been observed during the First World War. However, it was during this period wherein anticolonial efforts were first seen that led to the declining colonial powers in the decades to follow. Signs of the crisis of the colonial rule were recognized in these times that later on broke out in the years to follow, paving the way for decolonization.
Revolutionary processes were involved in the phases of decolonization. Resistance to the colonial powers was becoming apparent among the countries. The territories began to question the colonial order, aiming to establish a new order for their society. Anticolonial movements around the world were in full force as territorial countries struggle for their independence. These anticolonial activities were carried out in different forms, such as political protest, armed uprisings, boycotts among laborers, intentional acts of sabotage, and other forms of sabotages. Several groups of people with prominent roles often support these movements depending on the context. In areas of industrial production, labor struggle was a significant aspect of anticolonial protest among the people.
Several leader...