The second-largest continent, and the continent with the most countries, Africa is the largest of the three great southward projections from the main mass of the earth’s surface. Separated from Europe by the Mediterranean Sea, it is joined to Asia at its northeast extremity by the Isthmus of Suez. For geopolitical purposes, the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula is often included as part of Africa. The Romans gave the continent its name following the conquest of Carthage in 146 BC, probably naming it after the Afri tribe. Africa has a history that stretches back to the earliest human ancestors, with archaeological evidence indicating that it is the birthplace of humanity. Over millennia, it was home to great kingdoms and empires such as Ancient Egypt, Nubia, Carthage, Mali, Songhai, Aksum, and Great Zimbabwe, which thrived through trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange. The continent's diverse peoples developed rich traditions, languages, and belief systems, shaping societies that adapted to varied landscapes, from the Sahara to the rainforests and savannas. European colonialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries disrupted these societies, leading to exploitation, resistance, and eventual struggles for independence, which were largely achieved in the mid-to-late 20th century. In the post-colonial era, many African nations faced political and economic challenges, including the effects of artificial borders, governance struggles, and external influences, yet they also demonstrated resilience through economic growth, regional cooperation, and cultural innovation. Today, Africa is a continent of over a billion people, with rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, and an expanding role in global affairs, though issues such as economic inequality, environmental concerns, and political instability persist in some regions. Its cultural influence continues to grow, with literature, music, art, and cinema gaining international recognition, while economic hubs drive investment in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and renewable energy. Africa’s future remains shaped by its deep history, the resilience of its people, and its ongoing transformations in governance, development, and global engagement.