The Comoros Declares Independence from France on July 6, 1975

• The Comoros declared independence from France on July 6, 1975.
• The Portuguese first claimed to discover The Comoros in 1505.
• The islands were colonized by France starting in 1843.
• A referendum in December 1974 led to the independence vote.
• Mayotte voted to remain with France during the referendum.

Historical Background of The Comoros Independence

The Comoros declared its independence from France on July 6, 1975, a significant milestone in its history. To better understand the background of this event, one must look back to when Portuguese explorer Diego Ribero first noted these islands in 1505, describing what he found. However, it wasn’t until 1843 that the islands officially became a French colony after the military takeover of Mayotte Island began a new chapter in their history.

The Path Towards Independence

In 1886, the colonial powers of France expanded their control over the region, incorporating Grande Comoros, Anjouan, and Moheli into their fold, completing what we now know as the Comoros archipelago. Following the Second World War, the realities of maintaining these overseas territories began to weigh heavily on France. Consequently, The Comoros was reclassified as an overseas French territory in the 1950s, a move that sought to alleviate financial burdens for France. In 1961, internal autonomy was granted, but tensions simmered beneath the surface as many residents yearned for complete independence, leading to a referendum in December 1974 that would change everything.

Legacy of the Declaration of Independence

This referendum became pivotal as it revealed the stark contrast in sentiments among the islands, with Moheli, Anjouan, and Grande Comoros voting overwhelmingly for independence, while Mayotte chose to stay loyal to its French ties. On July 6, 1975, a resolution from the Comoros’ parliament declared independence, marking a decisive moment as Ahmed Abdallah was appointed president amidst this newfound freedom. Yet, French intervention soon followed, resulting in the overturning of this resolution and the categorization of Mayotte as a French overseas province, a situation that persists to this day. This event not only shaped the identity of The Comoros but also laid the ground for ongoing discussions about self-determination amongst its islands.

On July 6, 1975, The Comoros declared independence from France, while the status of Mayotte remains a contentious issue. This declaration was rooted in historical events and shifts in colonial governance, highlighting the islands’ complex relationship with France. The independence of The Comoros continues to influence its political landscape and identity.