1960

1960 was a year in the twentieth century, according to the Gregorian calendar (the international calendar in use today). It was a leap year, meaning February had 29 days and the year contained 366 days.

This year is remembered for political changes across the African continent. Many countries that had been under colonial rule achieved independence in 1960, which is why many historians call it the "Year of Africa".

Somalia and 1960

On 1 July 1960, the Somali Republic was established, when Italian Somalia (which had previously been a trusteeship territory administered by Italy on behalf of the United Nations) and British Somaliland united. British Somaliland had gained independence on 26 June 1960, and joined with the other territory a few days later. Adan Abdullah Osman became the first president, while Abdirasheid Ali Shermarke became prime minister.

The new government faced considerable challenges of state-building: integrating two different administrative and legal systems (one based on Italian law, one on English law), establishing a national army and police force, and drafting a new constitution, which was approved by popular vote in 1961.

Africa and decolonization

In 1960, many African countries gained independence, including Nigeria, Congo (which became independent from Belgium), Senegal, Mali, Madagascar, Chad, Niger, Cameroon, Togo, and Somalia. Congo in particular entered into rapid instability after independence, leading the United Nations to send a peacekeeping force.

Other international events

1960 saw the Summer Olympic Games held in Rome, Italy. The Cold War continued, with tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union increasing. It was also the year of the U.S. presidential election, contested between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon, which Kennedy won in November 1960.