As a consequence of the expense and devastation of the world wars, what became of the colonial lands?

within 20 years following the end of world war ii, colonial powers left occupied countries, granting independence.
colonies remained controlled by weakened countries that had fought in the wars.
wars continued within the colonies of africa in attempts to remove colonial powers.
india alone became free of britain.

The best and most correct answer among the choices provided by the question is the first choice "Within 20 years following the end of World War II, colonial powers left occupied countries, granting independence."

Between 1945 and 1960, three dozen new states in Asia and Africa achieved autonomy or outright independence from their European colonial rulers. Harold MacMillan, British Prime Minister, helped begin decolonization. There was no one process of decolonization. In some areas, it was peaceful, and orderly.

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