3 August 1960 – Niger Achieves Independence from France

Part of the once powerful Islamic Sokoto Empire the region was annexed by France at the end of the nineteenth century. It was created an autonomous republic within a greater French community in 1958, and independence followed in 1960.

Find out more about the history of Niger:

• A Brief History of Niger Part 1 – Early Humans to Military Rule
  
• A Brief History of Niger Part 2 – Military Rule to Present Day
  
• Niger History Resources

^{Image: © Alistair Boddy-Evans. Licensed to About.com, Inc.}