Angola: Colonial Legacy History of Colonial Rule The source of problems in some modern African nations lies in the colonial legacy of the past. Imperialist policies have often denied indigenous populations their political, economic, cultural and fundamental rights. Many imperialist practices encouraged ethnic rivalries, the unequal distribution of resources and wealth, and the creation of undemocratic governments that prevented local participation in government decisions and actions. The impact of colonization on Angola is similar to that of many other African countries. Angola suffered from one of the most backward forms of colonial rule because Portugal, compared to other European countries, lacked a stable economy and industrial capacity, which diminished the desire or need to develop the colony. The Portuguese first explored the Angolan coast in the late 15th century and controlled Angola until the late 20th century. In 1575 a colonial settlement was established in Luanda, but no attempt to settle inland was made until the 1900s. Explorers did not find precious metals, but discovered an excellent source of slaves for the colony of Brazil. During the 1880s, the Portuguese government underwent two violent transitions, from a monarchy to a republic and then to a military dictatorship in 1926. These changes in the home country resulted in a strengthening of Portuguese control in Angola . Portuguese privileges and wealth were maintained through the use of policies that violated human rights. Unjust policies subjected colonized populations to the loss of their lands, their resources, their cultural and religious identity, and sometimes even their lives. In the early years of the colony, repeated clashes took place between the Portuguese and the various countries. paper......effectively govern a sovereign nation. Like other African countries, the transition from colonial status to independence for Angola remains difficult, even violent. Works cited “ANGOLA – HISTORY”. Safari holidays and honeymoons in Tanzania by Tanzania Odyssey. Internet. March 22, 2010. “Angola from past to present.” Conciliation resources. Internet. March 22, 2010. “History of ANGOLA”. HistoryWorld - History and timelines. Internet. March 21, 2010. .Infoplease: Encyclopedia, Almanac, Atlas, Biographies, Dictionary, Thesaurus. Free online reference, research and homework help. Infoplease.com. Internet. March 21. 2010. .