Senegal The Fourth of April is Independence Day. Since April 4, 1960, when they declared their independence from French, they have celebrated it annually.
The people of Senegal celebrate their independence from France and pay tribute to their war heroes on this day. It’s a festival honoring their long-standing customs and cultural traditions.
We are celebrating with the people of this remarkable West African nation on their national holiday. Traditional music, a fusion of singing and Wolof instruments, fills the air throughout the day.
The day is even more festive and unforgettable with the addition of traditional dance and delicacies.
Independence Day in Senegal: A Brief History
The African country of Senegal is the furthest to the west. Senegal is formally known as the Senegalese Republic. The countries of Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and the Atlantic Ocean surround Senegal.
Senegal is a country rich in heritage and history. Archaeologists uncovered artifacts that suggest the area was inhabited long ago. This is an ancient settlement that has been continuously inhabited ever since.
Kingdoms such as Takrur, Namandiru, and Jolof emerged in the area around the seventh century. Between 300 and 1100 A.D., it was also a component of the mighty Ghana Empire.
When the Portuguese first arrived on the coast of Senegal in 1444, the colonial era officially began.
In the years that followed, many European countries vied with one another for control of trade in the area. The French eventually established a foothold in Senegal and used it as a hub in the transatlantic slave trade.
The Battle of Logandème was an early act of resistance against French authority.
Senegal achieved independence on April 4, 1960, after a long and difficult year marked by several little and large wars and shifting political dynamics in Europe and Africa.
Yet, the Mali Federation was formed previously when Senegal and French Sudan combined. However, internal problems and governing challenges led to the dissolution of the empire into separate states.
Léopold Sédar Senghor took office as the country’s first president and presided over parliamentary rule. In 1962, a new constitution was ratified, which centralized executive power.
Senegal: 6 Fast Facts Patriotic Activities for July 4th
Traditional festivals
The people of Senegal celebrate their national day with great pomp and circumstance. Senegalese mbalax music is played and danced to on Independence Day. Thieboudienne, a traditional dish from Senegal, is also frequently served.
Second, the ceremony of raising the national flag
The raising of the flag of the Republic of Senegal is done annually to honor the country’s liberation fighters. Dakar, Senegal, the country’s capital and the continent’s westernmost city, will host the ceremony.
Spending time with those that matter most to you
Many Sengalese stay at home with their families on Independence Day because it is also a public holiday.
Festivities and processions
The raising of the flag is usually accompanied by a military parade and a fair. Senegalese residents put in extra effort to adorn their homes with lights and the national flag.
Pincez Tous vos Koras, Frappez les Balafons, the Senegalese national hymn, is very popular. This is the same as saying “The Red Lion” in English.
Fifth, the rationale behind April 4
In 1960, on June 20th, Senegal declared its independence from France. So, why is it that we celebrate our independence on April 4th.
This is due to the fact that the date of June 20 refers to the Mali Federation and not the present-day state of Senegal. Senegal’s independence was officially declared on April 4, 1960, the day the country signed a transfer of power deal with France.
Sixth, our national banner
In 1960, shortly after independence, the flag of Senegal was officially approved. The meaning behind it hasn’t changed much despite minor adjustments over time:
- Islam, the dominant religion in Senegal, is symbolized by the color green.
- The color yellow is associated with success and money.
- Red symbolizes the blood shed in the fight for human freedom.
- The star is a symbol of harmony and cooperation.
- The three colors of the Senegalese flag are also widely utilized in other African flags. These hues also stand for solidarity across the various countries of Africa.
The first known African film
In Senegal, a Black African made one of the first movies ever made on the continent of Africa. The 20-minute film Barom Sarret (also known as “The Wagoner”) by Senegalese director Ousmane Sembène is set in the years following the country’s independence.
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Independence Day in Senegal,
- Most businesses and institutions are closed on Independence Day because it is a federal holiday.
- This is the time of year when many schools close for a full two weeks.
- The evening of April 3 marks the beginning of Independence Day celebrations, when many people go out to buy fireworks, new attire, and visit friends and neighbors in preparation for the holiday.
- Dakar has an annual procession down the Boulevard of General DeGaulle.
- The President of Senegal traditionally addresses the nation on this day.
