1957: Ghana Becomes Independent
Since 1874, the Gold Coast had been a British colony. During this time, the British fought and defeated the Kingdom of Ashanti. After World War II, the Ghanian began to…
From the earliest time to date, this tag covers major events in African history in short, simple but understandable posts. These posts are arranged chronologically in blog posts. For a broad article on any topic, use the search button or go to African History Archives.
1956: Sudan Becomes Independent
Before independence, Sudan had been under joint Egyptian-British rule. There was an organised referendum to determine whether Sudan would become part of Egypt or be totally independent. The Sudanese voted…
1956: Tunisia and Morocco Become Independent
In 1956, full-scale opposition to French rule compelled the French to grant independence to Morocco where M'barek Bekkai became Premier, and Tunisia where Habib Bourguiba became Prime Minister.
1952: Mau Mau Begin Terrorist Actions Against British in Kenya
The British Governor of Kenya declared a state of emergency as the Mau Mau began an open revolt against British rule. Hundreds of Kikuyu tribesmen were arrested by the British.…
1948: South Africa Embraces Apartheid
In a general election, a Nationalist Afrikaaner bloc led by Daniel Malan defeated the coalition of United and Labor Parties under Prime Minister Smuts. The new government had been elected…
1947: Revolt Against French Rule in Madagascar
There was an outbreak of a nationalist rebellion in Madagascar. “White settlers were assaulted, plantations burned and French garrisons attacked.” It took the French more than 12 months to put…