Which two countries were not under European occupation during the colonial period?

Ethiopia and Liberia are recognized for maintaining their independence during the colonial period, setting them apart from many other African nations that faced European occupation.

Liberia was established by freed American slaves in the early 19th century and remained independent throughout the colonial era. The country asserted its sovereignty, notably rejecting foreign colonization attempts, which allowed it to avoid the imperial grasp that engulfed much of the continent.

Ethiopia, with its strong historical roots and military prowess, famously resisted colonization, notably defeating Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa in 1896. This victory ensured Ethiopian sovereignty and allowed it to remain the only independent African nation during the Scramble for Africa, aside from Liberia.

The other options involve countries that were indeed subjected to varying degrees of European occupation or control during the colonial period. For instance, South Africa was colonized by the Dutch and later the British, while Egypt was placed under British control. Kenya faced British colonial rule as well. Thus, the unique status of Ethiopia and Liberia as independent nations firmly establishes them as the correct answer in this context.