The correct answer is Europeans considered Africans an inferior race.
European countries met at the Berlin conference from 1884 to 1885 to discuss the way to divide the African continent. No delegates from African countries were present. Many Europeans considered Africans an inferior race.
Powerful Germany had the intention to colonize Africa as England had done. In 1880, Germany started its conquering efforts with its allies Hungary, Austria, and Italy. That is why Chancellor Otto von Bismarck gathered with its these countries at the Berlin Conference during 1884-1885. These countries participated in the Conference: Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden-Norway, Turkey, and the U.S.
