1966: Botswana Gains Independence

On September 30th Botswana, formerly called the Bechuanaland Protectorate, became independent. Its first President was Sir Seretes Khama.

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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…

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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.

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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."

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1964: Tanganyika and Zanzibar Merge to Become Tanzania

Tanganyika became independent officially in 1962 and Zanzibar had become independent in 1963. The predominately Arab government was overthrown by Black nationalists in 1964. Subsequently, President Nyerere of Tanganyika suggested…

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