2. Senegal Colonization Senegal was colonized by France in 1677. Senegal was highly desired because of the abundance of seacoast for trading and land along the route to the Indies. The French flag
3. Senegal Independence The people of Senegal began to demand independence after World War II, but did not actually gain independence until April 4, 1960. At the time, Senegal was called the Mali Federation because it was joined with the French Sudan. Senegal’s actual independence was gained on August 20, 1960 under President Senghor.
4. Senegal Modern History President Senghor, the man who gained Senegal its independence, amended the constitution to eliminate restrictions on political parties and held office for over 20 years. His successor, Abdou Diouf, caused many problems for Senegal. He was the leader of the Senegalese Socialist Party, which dominated until 1989, when citizens claimed widespread fraud against him. The current president, Abdoulaye Wade, was inaugurated in 2000. His democratic position was a welcome change from the Senegalese Socialist Party. Wade also helped to sign the peace agreement with the Movement for the Democratic Forces of Casamance. Unfortunately, one of the MDFC factions opposed the treaty.
