French colonialism in Africa developed as an important part of France’s imperial expansion during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. After the decline of the Napoleonic Empire, France sought to restore its international prestige and acquire overseas territories. The conquest of Algeria in 1830 marked the beginning of a major phase of French expansion in Africa. During the late nineteenth century, especially under the Third Republic, France rapidly expanded its territories in North, West, and Central Africa. The French occupation of Algeria was particularly significant. Unlike many other colonies, Algeria was regarded by France as an integral part of the French nation, and large numbers of European settlers migrated there. The French administration confiscated land, imposed new laws, and weakened traditional political institutions. Algerian resistance, particularly under leaders such as Abd al-Qadir, was suppressed after prolonged military campaigns. French control was consolidated through settlements, military occupation, and administrative reorganisation. French expansion in West Africa accelerated during the period of the Scramble for Africa. France established control over territories that later became Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, and parts of present-day Chad. These territories were gradually organised into French West Africa. In Central Africa, France established control over areas that