The colonization of Liberia began in 1822.
Liberia was founded as a colony for free African Americans and freed slaves from the United States. It was established by the American Colonization Society, which aimed to provide a new home for free Blacks living in the United States.
The first group of settlers, consisting of both free African Americans and freed slaves, arrived in Liberia in 1822. They settled in the area that is now Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia. The settlement was named "Liberia," derived from the Latin word for freedom.
Over the following years, more settlers arrived in Liberia, seeking freedom and a new start. The settlers established a government and implemented rules and laws based on the American system. They aimed to create a society where formerly enslaved individuals could live as free citizens.
Liberia declared its independence from the American Colonization Society in 1847, becoming the first independent republic in Africa. However, it is important to note that the colonization process began in 1822, laying the foundation for the establishment of an independent nation.
Therefore, the correct answer is 1822.