Most African nations gained independence after World War II. In some cases, independence was achieved through peaceful means. In other cases, independence was achieved by violent means, and violence continued
in the years after independence. What colonial policies or practices played a part in peaceful or violent
transitions to self-rule?

One major colonial policy that had an important effect in this violent and non-violent (in some cases) transition was called apartheid. Apartheid was a system set in South Africa that was designed to demotivate black people from achieving anything and put white people in power.

Explanation:

pretty sure they split up because of religious conflicts.

since most of current immigration into the u.s., both legal and illegal, is coming from latin america. it would be very difficult to imagine or rationalize a country my fellow citizens are trying desperately to flee into, would pose a threat to my prosperity or freedom. since the u.s. has a long history of intervention, but no record of permanent occupation, i would not feel oppression is the main objective.  

the largest free trade nation, along with the largest gdp in the world wanting to expand it's economic policy on us, and including us, could only be positive. the u.s. government has no interest in, or way of simply forcing american culture on us. and has no track record of it. other nations that adopted american social culture, or "americanization" did so voluntarily, mainly through the choice of allowing american businesses and u.s. citizens to come into their nations, as free operatives.