West African colonies were territories in West Africa that were controlled by European powers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Major colonial powers included Britain, France, and Germany, which established their dominance through treaties, military force, and economic exploitation. These colonies were rich in resources like gold, cocoa, and rubber, which were extracted for the benefit of the colonizers. The impact of colonization on West African societies was profound. Traditional governance structures were often disrupted, and local economies were reoriented to serve European interests. This led to significant social changes, including the introduction of new religions, languages, and educational systems, which continue to influence the region today.