The prominent African leader known for his resistance against colonial rule is Kwame Nkrumah. A key figure in Ghana's independence movement, he became the first President of Ghana after its liberation from British colonial rule in 1957. Nkrumah was instrumental in advocating for pan-Africanism and promoting unity among African nations, believing that independence was essential for economic development and political sovereignty. His efforts inspired other African countries to fight for their independence, leading to a wave of decolonization across the continent during the mid-20th century, making him a significant leader in global anti-colonial movements.