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.
1960s C.E.
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.
Theodore Maiman invents the laser
Maiman’s laser led to the subsequent development of many other types of lasers. The laser was successfully fired on May 16, 1960.