E.2. Decolonisation: Stages
There are five proposed stages to decolonisation, as follows
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The first stage of decolonisation is known as rediscovery and recovery, where colonized societies begin to reconnect with and reassert the richness of their own cultural roots, historical legacy, and traditions. This stage involves reclaiming a sense of pride in indigenous identity that was suppressed or marginalized during colonial rule. |
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The second stage is the period of mourning, during which communities collectively acknowledge and come to terms with the trauma and oppression they endured under colonization. This stage is often characterized by frustration, resistance, and protest, as people begin to process their shared history of exploitation and loss. |
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The third and arguably most vital stage is the reconstruction of the future. This involves active discussion, planning, and decision-making about the political and cultural future of the now or soon-to-be independent society. It focuses on establishing new governance structures, rebuilding cultural values, and envisioning a self-determined path forward for the postcolonial nation. |
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The fourth stage is about commitment to a single decided cause and direction for the colony. This stage is a collection of all of the people’s voices that are unified in a direction so clear cut that the colony can proceed to the final stage |
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The fifth and most commonly final stage of decolonization is the action towards said unified goal, which can express itself in a variety of ways, namely through violence and reclaiming what was once a colony. The process of the previous four stages sometimes cannot be afforded to a colony if they are under serious threat, in which case the fifth stage tends to manifest itself faster. |