Contrary to the poison jb be
preachin', many of the third world, or ledc as they are now known were not part of any european empires. Take a look at central and eastern asia, par example.
Also, the countries that were
conquested were left in no worse condition than found. Full of tribal conflicts and such. Some,
particularly the ones that were released early have done well.
Might also be worth reminding users that south america was once part of a poorly executed empire started by the usa a little over a century ago.