Colonial wars were conflicts that occurred during the period of European colonial expansion, primarily from the 16th to the 20th centuries. These wars often involved European powers, such as Britain, France, and Spain, fighting for control over territories in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The conflicts were driven by competition for resources, land, and trade routes. Many colonial wars involved local populations resisting foreign domination, leading to significant social and political changes. Notable examples include the French and Indian War and the Anglo-Zulu War. These wars often resulted in the establishment or expansion of colonial empires, shaping the modern world.