The Colony of Kenya was established in the late 19th century when British explorers and settlers began to arrive in the region. It became a British protectorate in 1895 and was officially declared a colony in 1920. The colony was known for its diverse landscapes, including savannas, mountains, and coastal areas, and it attracted many European settlers, particularly in agriculture. During the colonial period, the local population faced significant challenges, including land dispossession and forced labor. The struggle for independence grew over the years, culminating in the Mau Mau Uprising in the 1950s. Kenya eventually gained independence in 1963, marking the end of colonial rule.