Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, holds a rich and complex history that stretches back millennia. But where is Burkina Faso exactly, and what are the key historical events that have shaped this nation? Let’s delve into the geographical context and timeline of Burkina Faso to understand its place in the world.
Located in West Africa, Burkina Faso is surrounded by six countries: Mali to the north, Niger to the east, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Ivory Coast to the southwest. This places it firmly within the heart of the West African region, a vibrant area known for its diverse cultures and historical trade routes.
The story of Burkina Faso is long and fascinating:
Ancient Roots and Early Civilizations:
- 3600-2600 BC: The region sees the establishment of early agricultural settlements, marking the beginnings of organized society in the area.
- 800-700 BC: Iron smelting and production techniques are developed, indicating technological advancements and resourcefulness in ancient Burkina Faso.
- 3rd-13th Century AD: The Bura culture flourishes. This Iron Age civilization, centered in the Niger River valley (spanning parts of Niger and Burkina Faso), leaves behind archaeological evidence of a sophisticated society.
The Rise of the Mossi Kingdoms:
- c.1000-1896: The Mossi Kingdoms, or Mossi Empire, emerge and dominate the upper Volta river region. Ouagadougou becomes the center of the largest and most powerful Mossi kingdom.
- c.1700: The Mossi kingdoms expand their economic and military influence, forging connections with powerful entities like the Fula kingdoms and the Mali Empire, demonstrating their strategic importance in the region.
Colonial Era and French Influence:
- 1896: France invades the area, establishing Burkina Faso as a French protectorate. By 1898, French conquest is complete, marking the beginning of colonial rule.
- 1898: The Franco-British Convention defines Burkina Faso’s modern borders, a significant event shaping the country’s geographical identity within the colonial landscape.
- 1915-1917: The Volta-Bani War, a major anti-colonial rebellion, erupts across modern Burkina Faso and Mali. Despite a significant rebel force, the French military ultimately suppresses the uprising.
Shifting Colonial Administration:
- 1919: France creates French Upper Volta, carving out the territory of present-day Burkina Faso from Upper Senegal and Niger for administrative purposes.
- 1932: French Upper Volta is dissolved and its territory is divided among neighboring French colonies (Ivory Coast, French Sudan, and Niger) after unsuccessful attempts to promote cotton as a profitable export.
- 1947: Following strong anti-colonial movements after World War Two, France reverses course and re-establishes the colony of Upper Volta.
Independence and Beyond:
- 1958: Upper Volta achieves self-governance and joins the Franco-African Community, a step towards full independence.
- 1960: Upper Volta gains complete independence, with Maurice Yaméogo becoming its first president, ushering in a new era for the nation.
- 1966: A military coup led by Lt Col Sangoulé Lamizana ousts Yaméogo, suspends the constitution, and establishes military rule, highlighting early political instability.
- 1976: A new constitution is introduced, outlining a transition to civilian rule over a four-year period, with Lamizana remaining in power.
- 1978: Sangoulé Lamizana is re-elected in open elections, marking a step towards democratic processes.
- 1980: Col Saye Zerbo overthrows President Lamizana in a coup, setting up another military government and continuing a period of political upheaval.
- 1982: Zerbo is overthrown by Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo and the Council of Popular Salvation (CPS), leading to further unrest and power struggles in the young nation.
Understanding where Burkina Faso is geographically is just the starting point. Its location in West Africa has been central to its historical interactions, from ancient trade to colonial borders and modern geopolitics. This timeline reveals a nation with deep historical roots, navigating a complex path through empires, colonialism, and the challenges of building an independent state.
