Postcolonialism is a field of study that examines the effects and aftermath of colonialism on cultures and societies. It focuses on how countries that were once colonized by powers like Britain or France deal with their histories and identities. This approach looks at literature, art, and politics to understand the lingering impacts of colonial rule and the struggle for independence and self-definition. In postcolonial theory, scholars analyze the ways in which colonized peoples resist and redefine their identities. They explore themes such as hybridity, where cultures blend, and subaltern voices, which highlight the perspectives of marginalized groups. By doing so, postcolonialism seeks to challenge dominant narratives and promote a more inclusive understanding of history.