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10 Things You Didn’t Know About Equatorial Guinea’s Independence

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Equatorial Guinea’s Independence

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Oct 12 marks 46 years of independence from Spain for the west central African country of Equatorial Guinea. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about the country pre and post colonization:

Sources: Encyclopedia Britannica, CIA World Fact Book 

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www.flickr.com

 

1. Only Spanish colony in Africa

Spain only had one colony in Africa, Equatorial Guinea. They relinquished control on Oct 12, 1968, which is relatively early by 20th century African independence statistics.

www.culturesofafrica.pbworks.com
www.culturesofafrica.pbworks.com

2. Pygmies first inhabitants

The original inhabitants of this coastal region just south of West Africa are believed to be Pygmies. They were followed by Bantu migrants starting in the 17th century.

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www.tours42.com

3. Original colonists

Fernao do Po, an explorer from Portugal looking for a path to India, is credited with being the first European to set foot on modern day Equatorial Guinea territory in the late 1400s.

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www.en.wikipedia.org

4. Spanish takeover

In 1778 the region was ceded to Spain in a treaty between Queen Maria I of Portugal and King Charles III of Spain. It was called the Treaty of El Pardo.

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5. Ruled from Buenos Aires

At the end of the 18th century, during which Spain competed with Britain for a slave source, Equatorial Guinea was administered by the Buenos Aires-based Rio da la Plata Viceroyalty.

www.equatorialguineainfo.blogspot.com
www.equatorialguineainfo.blogspot.com

6. Spanish rule continues

Spanish rule continued in some form or another for another couple hundred years.

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www.hwr.org

7. Independence movement begins

The independence movement began to come together at the end of 1967, after the Spanish government suspended autonomous political control.

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www.thisisafrica.met

8. New Constitution proposed

By the summer of 1967, with the approval of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), a new constitution had been drafted and then approved on Aug 11. Parlimentary elections followed in September and a proclamation of independence was delivered, and granted, on Oct. 12, 1968.

www.hrw.org
www.hrw.org

9. Post independence

Life hasn’t been rosy since independence. However, a series of dictators have ruled ever since. The current leader has been in control since 1979.

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www.misstourismworld.com

10. How it’s celebrated

Independence day — which coincidentally is the same day much of the rest of the world celebrates Columbus Day —  is celebrated with a parade through the streets of the capital, Malabo. The festivities vary by year, but can include beauty contestants as pictured above from 2013’s celebration.