1966: Nigerian Civil War Breaks Out
In January, a series of insurrections in the Nigerian army resulted in chaos in the country. “Troops murdered their officers, civilians killed each other.” The governor of the Nigerian Eastern…
1966: Lesotho Gains Independence
On October 4th the British colony of Basutoland became independent and was renamed Lesotho. It became a monarchy under King Moshoeshoe. Chief Leabua Jonathan became Prime Minister.
1966: Botswana Gains Independence
On September 30th Botswana, formerly called the Bechuanaland Protectorate, became independent. Its first President was Sir Seretes Khama.
1965: Rhodesia Declares Independence
Rhodesia announced its independence from Great Britain, in defiance of the British government. Rhodesia's government, which was led by Ian Smith, was all white in a country that was almost…
1965: Gambia Gains Independence
On February 18th Gambia became a fully independent country. A referendum on becoming a republic was not a success. The first Prime Minister was Dawanda Jawara.
1964: the US and Belgium Intervene in Congo
In November 1964, Belgium and the United States intervened militarily in the Congo crisis to "recover hostages from Simba's captivity."