Early Influences:
* Trade: French traders had contact with coastal areas of Africa (mainly West and Central Africa) from the 15th century onwards. This contact led to some limited adoption of French, particularly in trading communities.
* Exploration: French explorers and missionaries also played a role, especially in the 17th and 18th centuries. They established settlements and introduced French to local populations, though this was generally restricted to smaller areas.
Colonial Era (19th and 20th Centuries):
* Colonization: The most significant factor in the spread of French in Africa was colonization. France established vast colonies in North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, and Madagascar between the 19th and early 20th centuries. French became the official language of administration, education, and commerce in these colonies.
* Education: French was imposed as the language of instruction in schools, leading to widespread adoption, particularly among the educated elite.
* Assimilation Policies: France implemented policies aimed at assimilating Africans into French culture, which included language. However, these policies were met with resistance and did not fully succeed.
Post-Independence (1960s onwards):
* Official Language: Many African countries retained French as an official language after independence, reflecting its historical role and the need for continued communication with France and other French-speaking countries.
* Lingua Franca: French continues to be used as a lingua franca in some regions, facilitating communication between people from different ethnic groups and countries.
* Francophonie: The association of French-speaking countries (Francophonie) fosters cultural and linguistic ties between Africa and France, as well as other French-speaking nations.
Therefore, the "start date" for French in Africa is not a single point in time. It's a gradual process with various starting points across different regions, with colonization playing the most significant role in its widespread adoption.