Banknoten AEF 5 Francs Afrique Française Libre - 1941 - Serial A 38 - F - P.6

The Free French Africa refers to a portion of French colonial Africa that, during World War II, rallied behind General Charles de Gaulle's Free France movement, opposing the Vichy regime and Nazi occupation.

After France's defeat in 1940, several French colonial territories in Africa had to choose between supporting the Vichy regime, which was under German influence, or joining General de Gaulle's Free French forces, which continued the fight against Nazi Germany.

Certain African territories, such as Chad, Gabon, French Equatorial Africa (AEF), and other colonies, joined Free France. These territories were then considered part of Free French Africa, supporting the Allied forces in their struggle against Nazi occupation.

This commitment to Free France allowed these African colonies to play a crucial role in the liberation of France and contribute to the Allies' war effort. After the war, this also had an impact on nationalist movements in Africa, as many individuals were influenced by their participation in the war and sought greater autonomy or even independence for their territories.