1972 — Cameroon Votes for One Nation

On May 20, 1972, Cameroonians voted in a national referendum to scrap the federal system and adopt a unitary state. The result was overwhelming: 99.99 percent voted yes. President Ahmadou Ahidjo dissolved the federation of East and West Cameroon and proclaimed the United Republic of Cameroon, joining the two parts under one central government.

Ever since, May 20, not independence day, has been Cameroon's National Day, celebrated with parades and the president's address in Yaoundé. The date marks the choice of unity as the nation's founding celebration, a reminder each year that the country's shape was settled not only by history, but by a vote.