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Decolonization followed World War II for a combination of factors that were instrumental in shaping the post-war world. The correct answer reflects the multifaceted nature of decolonization and acknowledges that all listed options contributed to this significant historical process.
One factor was the promotion of revolutionary ideas by the Soviet Union, which sought to expand its influence in the Global South. The post-war period saw the emergence of anti-colonial movements that were often inspired or supported by Soviet ideology, which framed colonialism as a form of oppression that needed to be overthrown.
Additionally, the rhetoric of freedom and self-government became increasingly prominent after the war. The devastation of WWII prompted a global reassessment of imperialism and colonial rule, with many colonial subjects drawing inspiration from the principles of self-determination enshrined in pivotal documents like the United Nations Charter. Such ideals resonated deeply within colonial territories, prompting demands for independence and self-rule.
Lastly, the European colonial powers shifted their focus back to rebuilding their own war-torn nations, which led to a decreased ability and willingness to maintain colonial empires. The economic and social strains of the war effort made it increasingly difficult for these powers to control far-flung colonies, accelerating the push for independence.
Thus,