More than 40 cultures thrive in northwest Africa, and a mix of French, English, Arabic, and tribal languages are spoken by its inhabitants. The vast Sahara is home to dinosaur fossils, rock paintings, and relief sculptures that date back more than 4,000 years. Colonialism and the slave trade began in the 15th century, decimating the region's economy and population. Nationalist movements began after World War I, and by the mid-seventies most nations in northwest Africa were independent. Despite corruption and instability, and the AIDS and food crises, northwest Africa is a vibrant, multicultural region.
