1960 — Ivory Coast Independence

On August 7, 1960, Ivory Coast declared independence from France, with Félix Houphouët-Boigny becoming its first president. The new nation entered freedom with a powerful asset and a close partner: it was the world's largest cocoa producer, and it kept close ties to Paris as its first government set its course.

Houphouët-Boigny ruled for thirty-three unbroken years, raising Yamoussoukro's basilica as his monument. Few independence leaders held power so long, or left so visible a mark on their country's landscape. Independence Day, August 7, is still marked by military parades through Abidjan, honouring the birth of the republic he led.