Following World War II, Libya experienced a significant transformation as it moved towards independence from colonial rule. The British and French had administered the country under mandate conditions since the war ended, but growing nationalist sentiments fueled demands for self-governance. In 1949, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution calling for Libya's independence, which energized Libyan leaders and activists across the country. Negotiations led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, with a focus on creating a unified national identity. On December 24, 1951, Libya was officially declared independent, and Idris I, the leader of the Senussi order, was proclaimed the king. His ascension was significant; it symbolized the merging of traditional leadership with modern statehood, aimed at fostering unity among Libya’s diverse tribes and regions. The announcement was met with widespread jubilation among the populace, as flags were raised and celebrations erupted in cities and towns across the nation. This transition marked a pivotal shift in Libya’s governance, as it embarked on a journey to establish its identity as a sovereign state in the post-colonial world.