1955

1955 was a year of the twentieth century, occurring during the Cold War (the political rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union). That year saw major political movements in Asia and Africa, and economic reconstruction in Europe continuing from the decade following the Second World War.

The year fell within a period when many colonized countries were moving toward independence. Somalia at that time was divided under different administrations: the south was under an Italian trusteeship approved by the United Nations, while the north was a British colony.

The Bandung Conference

Among the most significant events of the year was the Asia-Africa conference held in the city of Bandung in Indonesia. The conference brought together delegations from Asian and African nations, where they discussed ending colonialism, economic cooperation, and non-alignment with either of the two superpowers. The conference is considered the foundation of the Non-Aligned Movement, formally established in subsequent years.

The Cold War

1955 is noted for the signing of the Warsaw Pact, a military alliance established by Eastern European countries aligned with the Soviet Union. This step followed the admission of West Germany into NATO. As a result, Europe became formally divided into two opposing blocs.

Civil rights and society

Within the United States, 1955 was among the years that intensified the civil rights movement of the Black population. Events that occurred in the South sparked campaigns against racial segregation in public transport and public spaces.