Montego's History Lesson

Nigeria Independence Day, Oct. 1, 1960: Nigeria, led by Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, gained independence from Britain. The Nigerian independence movement involved various political parties and movements, such as the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons and the Action Group, advocating for self-governance and the end of colonial rule.

Botswana's Independence Day, Sept. 30, 1966: Seretse Khama, a charismatic leader, became the first President of Botswana upon its independence. Botswana's independence was achieved peacefully, and Khama's leadership laid the foundation for the country's successful economic and political development.

Belize's Independence Day (21st Sept, 1981): Belize, located on the northeastern coast of Central America, achieved independence from British colonial rule on September 21, 1981. The path to independence was marked by struggles, border disputes, and the emergence of resilient leaders who fought for self-determination and the advancement of Belizean identity.

St Kitts and Nevis Independence Day (19th Sept,1983): St Kitts and Nevis, a twin-islandnation, achieved independence from British rule on September 19, 1983, after years of determination and resilience. Leaders like Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw and Dr. Timothy Harris played instrumental roles in driving the country's fight for self-determination.

Eswatini/ Kingdom of Swaziland Independence Day, Sept. 6, 1968: Swaziland gained independence under King Sobhuza II. The process was relatively peaceful, with negotiations between the British and Swazi authorities. Swaziland is now known as Eswatini but still holds true to its Swazi tradition.

Battle of Adwa (1896, Ethiopia):

Trinidad & Tobago's journey to independence was marked by significant battles and influential leaders. On August 31, 1962, the country achieved independence from British colonial rule after years of resistance and political mobilization. Notable leaders such as Dr. Eric Williams, a renowned historian and politician, played a crucial role in the nation's fight for freedom.

Jamaica, a Caribbean powerhouse renowned for its reggae music and cultural vibrancy, gained independence on August 6, 1962. The journey to independence was shaped by influential figures such as Norman Manley and his cousin Alexander Bustamante, who played instrumental roles in leading the country towards self-governance.

Windward Maroons' Rebellion (1795-1796, Jamaica): Led by Nanny of the Maroons, the Windward Maroons' Rebellion in Jamaica challenged British rule and led to the signing of the first treaty granting Maroon autonomy.

The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) was a triumphant slave uprising that established Haiti as the first independent Black republic. Led by Toussaint Louverture, the revolution shattered slavery, inspired global struggles for freedom, and challenged colonial powers. Despite facing adversity, the revolutionaries declared independence in 1804. The Haitian Revolution remains a symbol of resistance and a catalyst for human rights movements."

Samori Toure Resistance (1882-1898, West Africa):

Samori Toure, a renowned West African leader, led a formidable resistance movement against French colonial expansion in the late 19th century. Born into a Fulbe family in what is now Guinea, Toure rose to prominence through his strategic military campaigns and ability to unite diverse ethnic groups under the Wassoulou Empire.

Malawi's Independence Day, July 6, 1964: Malawi, led by Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, gained independence from Britain. The independence movement in Malawi was largely peaceful, and Banda played a crucial role in shaping the country's post-independence direction.