Angola achieves independence from Portugal
After many years of conflict, the nation gained its independence on 11 November 1975, after the 1974 coup d’état in Lisbon, Portugal.
Sub-Saharan Africa
Zambia gains independence from the United Kingdom
The Zambia Independence Act 1964 was an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom which granted independence to Zambia (formerly the protectorate of Northern Rhodesia) with effect from 24 October 1964.
Kenya attains self-rule and celebrates first Madaraka Day
Madaraka Day (“Internal self rule” or Self-Governance Day) is now a national holiday celebrated every 1 June of every year in the Republic of Kenya.
Nigeria gains independence from the United Kingdom
The Federation of Nigeria was granted full independence on 1 October 1960 under a constitution that provided for a parliamentary government and a substantial measure of self-government for the country’s three regions.
Mali declares independence
French Sudan joined with Senegal in 1959, achieving independence in 1960 as the Mali Federation. Shortly thereafter, the Sudanese Republic declared itself the independent Republic of Mali.
Benin achieves independence from France and becomes a republic
In 1958, France granted autonomy to the Republic of Dahomey, and full independence on 1 August 1960, which is celebrated each year as Independence Day, a national holiday.
Madagascar declares independence from France
The Malagasy Republic was proclaimed in 1958 as an autonomous state within the French Community. A period of provisional government ended with the adoption of a constitution in 1959 and independence in 1960.
Senegal and the French Sudan merge to form the Mali Federation, gaining independence from France
In January 1959, Senegal and the French Sudan merged to form the Mali Federation, which became fully independent on 20 June 1960. The transfer of power agreement with France was signed on 4 April 1960.
Ghana declares independence from the United Kingdom and establishes its new nation
On 6 March 1957, Kwame Nkrumah declared Ghana’s establishment and autonomy. On 1 July 1960, following the Ghanaian constitutional referendum, 1960 and Ghanaian presidential election, 1960 Nkrumah declared Ghana as a republic as the first President of Ghana.
Malawi gains independence from Britain
In 1964 the British protectorate over Nyasaland was ended and Nyasaland became an independent country under Queen Elizabeth II with the new name Malawi.