How did imperialism and the subsequent process of decolonization contribute to the current state of global inequality?

Imperialism involved powerful countries taking control of weaker nations, often exploiting their resources and people for economic gain. This created a system where wealth and power were concentrated in the hands of a few nations, leaving many countries impoverished and struggling. When these colonies gained independence, they faced challenges like weak economies and lack of infrastructure, which made it hard for them to compete globally. For example, many African nations had their economies structured around exporting raw materials, which limited their ability to develop diverse industries. This historical context has contributed to ongoing global inequality, as former colonies often remain disadvantaged compared to former imperial powers.