August 3: Independence Day in Niger
Prayer Idea
Pray for the people and government of Niger.
Map by Peter Hermes Furian / Shutterstock.com.
History Note
In past centuries, the Tuareg nomads occupied the Saharan desert region in the northern part of what is now Niger. Agricultural people such as the Songhai-Zarma and the Hausa lived in the southern region. Copper and salt were two important commodities used in trade with neighboring peoples.
France established control over a large part of West Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including what became Niger. The Indigenous people in the region officially became French citizens in 1946 and received representation in the French parliament. However, elite members of society, particularly those who had studied in French schools, received the most benefit.
Hamani Diori (1916-1989) was a leader in the move for independence from France, which was proclaimed on August 3, 1960. Diori became the first president of the Republic of Niger.
Niger (not to be confused with Nigeria, its neighbor to the south) has a population of 26 million. The Hausa are the largest ethnic group, making up just over half of the population. Several other ethnic groups also live in the country. French is the official language, though many people speak one of several other Indigenous languages.
About 95% of the people are Muslim. Most of the rest adhere to traditional folk religions, though there are a small number of Christians.
This 2019 photo shows Tuareg men at the mosque of Agadez, Niger. Originally built in 1515, it features a minaret of about 89 feet, the tallest mud-brick tower in the world.
Learn More
Watch a group of Tuareg men in Niger perform a dance with swords and shields.
Find more resources at Homeschool History.
