The Scramble for Africa refers to the rapid invasion, colonization, and division of African territory by European powers during the late 19th century, particularly from the 1880s to the early 1900s. Major countries involved included Britain, France, Germany, and Belgium, each seeking to expand their empires and access valuable resources. This period was marked by the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, where European nations formalized their claims to African land without considering the existing cultures and political structures. The consequences of the Scramble for Africa were profound, leading to the exploitation of natural resources and the imposition of foreign rule over African societies. Indigenous populations faced significant disruptions, including loss of land, forced labor, and cultural changes. The legacy of this period continues to affect African nations today, contributing to ongoing political and economic challenges.