How many colonies were given independence in the year 1947?

The year 1947 was a pivotal one in the dismantling of the British Empire, marking a significant shift in global power dynamics. Following the Second World War, Britain's resources were strained, and the desire for self-determination grew stronger in many of its colonies. While the independence of India is perhaps the most well-known event of that year, it wasn't the only one. In fact, nine colonies achieved independence in 1947. Besides India and Pakistan, which were partitioned into two separate nations, other territories in Southeast Asia and the Middle East also gained their freedom. This wave of independence movements reflected a broader trend of decolonization that reshaped the world map in the decades following the war. So, while it's easy to focus solely on the monumental event of Indian independence, remembering that eight other colonies also achieved self-governance in 1947 paints a more complete picture of this transformative year.