History of Burkina Faso

The history of Burkina Faso is rich and complex, encompassing ancient civilizations, colonial rule, and the establishment of a modern…

By Staff , in Burkina Faso , at July 9, 2024 Tags: burkina faso

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The history of Burkina Faso is rich and complex, encompassing ancient civilizations, colonial rule, and the establishment of a modern nation-state.

Ancient and Medieval Periods
Early Inhabitants: The area now known as Burkina Faso has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. Early societies practiced agriculture, animal husbandry, and metallurgy.
Mossi Kingdoms: From the 11th to the 19th centuries, the region was dominated by the Mossi kingdoms, which were powerful and centralized states. The most prominent of these were the kingdoms of Ouagadougou, Yatenga, and Tenkodogo. The Mossi were known for their military prowess and complex political structures.

European Exploration and Colonization
French Colonization: In the late 19th century, the French began to expand their influence into the interior of West Africa. By the early 20th century, the area that is now Burkina Faso was colonized by the French and incorporated into French West Africa.
Formation of Upper Volta: In 1919, the French created the colony of Upper Volta by combining parts of the surrounding colonies. It was dissolved in 1932 and its territory divided among other colonies, but it was reestablished in 1947.

Path to Independence
Post-War Nationalism: After World War II, nationalist movements gained momentum throughout French West Africa. Political parties in Upper Volta, such as the Voltaic Democratic Union (UDV), began to demand greater autonomy.
Independence Achieved: On August 5, 1960, Upper Volta gained full independence from France. Maurice Yaméogo became the country’s first president.

Post-Independence Period
Yaméogo’s Rule: Maurice Yaméogo’s presidency was marked by economic difficulties and political repression. He was overthrown in a military coup in 1966 led by Sangoulé Lamizana.
Lamizana’s Rule: General Lamizana ruled until 1980, initially through military rule and later as an elected president. His tenure was marked by attempts at economic reform and the drafting of a new constitution in 1970.
Subsequent Coups: The period from 1980 to 1983 saw a series of coups and short-lived governments, reflecting political instability and factionalism within the military and political elite.

Thomas Sankara and the Burkinabé Revolution
Thomas Sankara’s Rise to Power: In August 1983, Captain Thomas Sankara came to power through a military coup. Sankara, a charismatic Marxist revolutionary, aimed to transform Upper Volta into a self-reliant and progressive nation.
Renaming to Burkina Faso: In 1984, Sankara renamed the country Burkina Faso, meaning “Land of Upright People” in the local Mossi and Dyula languages.
Reforms and Policies: Sankara’s government implemented wide-ranging reforms, including land redistribution, nationalization of key industries, vaccination campaigns, and initiatives to promote gender equality. His policies were aimed at reducing dependency on foreign aid and improving living standards.
Assassination and Aftermath: On October 15, 1987, Sankara was assassinated in a coup led by his former ally Blaise Compaoré. Compaoré reversed many of Sankara’s policies and ruled the country for 27 years.

Blaise Compaoré’s Rule and Fall
Compaoré’s Presidency: Blaise Compaoré’s long rule was marked by relative stability and economic growth, but also by allegations of corruption, human rights abuses, and suppression of political opposition.
2014 Uprising: In October 2014, mass protests erupted against Compaoré’s attempt to amend the constitution to extend his rule. The protests forced Compaoré to resign and flee the country.
Transition to Democracy: Following Compaoré’s departure, a transitional government was established, and democratic elections were held in 2015. Roch Marc Christian Kaboré was elected president.

Recent Developments
Political Stability and Challenges: Burkina Faso has faced ongoing challenges, including political instability, economic difficulties, and security threats from jihadist groups operating in the Sahel region.
Terrorism and Insurgency: Since 2016, the country has experienced a significant increase in terrorist attacks and insurgency, leading to internal displacement and humanitarian crises.

Cultural and Social Aspects
Diverse Culture: Burkina Faso is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and festivals. The country hosts the biennial Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), one of the most important cultural events in Africa.
Languages and Ethnic Groups: Burkina Faso is home to a diverse population with over 60 ethnic groups. The major languages spoken include French (the official language), Mossi, Dioula, and Fulfulde.