---
title: "French West Africa — AP World Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "French West Africa was a federation of eight French colonies that won independence mostly through negotiation, a key Topic 8.5 contrast with Algeria and Vietnam."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-world/key-terms/french-west-africa"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP World History: Modern"
---

# French West Africa — AP World Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

French West Africa was a federation of eight French colonial territories in West Africa, established in the late 19th century and lasting until the mid-20th century. It played a pivotal role in the context of decolonization after 1900 as it became a focal point for anti-colonial movements and independence efforts across the region.

## Related Study Guides

- [8.5 Decolonization After 1900](/ap-world/unit-8/decolonization-after-1900/study-guide/EKnzxRTHAQSWH6HPOB4w)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Assimilation](/ap-world/key-terms/assimilation): The French policy aimed at transforming colonial subjects into French citizens by promoting French culture and language while suppressing local customs and traditions.
- [Nationalism](/ap-world/key-terms/nationalism): A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to movements for independence from colonial rule.
- [Decolonization](/ap-world/key-terms/decolonization): The process through which colonies gained independence from colonial powers, particularly after World War II, leading to the establishment of new nations.

### Key Facts

- French West Africa included territories such as Senegal, Mali, Niger, Guinea, Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, and Mauritania.
- The federation was officially established in 1895, and it served as a key area for French economic exploitation through agriculture and resource extraction.
- The rise of nationalist movements in the mid-20th century led to increased demands for independence from French colonial rule.
- In 1958, a referendum allowed the territories of French West Africa to choose between remaining part of France or gaining self-governance, ultimately leading to full independence.
- By 1960, all the countries within French West Africa had achieved independence, marking a significant moment in the broader trend of decolonization across Africa.

### How did the policy of assimilation impact local cultures within French West Africa during colonial rule?

The policy of assimilation aimed to integrate colonial subjects into French culture, which significantly impacted local customs and traditions. This approach often marginalized indigenous practices and languages in favor of promoting French language and values. As a result, many communities faced cultural erosion, although it also led to the emergence of a educated elite who would later spearhead independence movements.

### Discuss the role that nationalism played in the independence movements within French West Africa during the mid-20th century.

Nationalism emerged as a driving force for independence in French West Africa as people began to seek self-determination and reject colonial rule. Leaders like Léopold Sédar Senghor in Senegal championed national identity and unity among various ethnic groups. This wave of nationalist sentiment culminated in widespread protests and demands for political representation, significantly influencing France's decision to allow these territories greater autonomy and eventual independence.

### Evaluate the significance of the 1958 referendum in shaping the future political landscape of former French West African territories.

The 1958 referendum was crucial as it provided the territories of French West Africa with a choice between remaining part of France or seeking self-governance. The overwhelming support for self-governance indicated a strong desire among the population for independence, leading to significant political changes. This event not only accelerated the decolonization process but also set a precedent for other African nations striving for freedom from colonial rule, thus reshaping the continent's political landscape.