In the late 1950s, a strong movement for independence from colonial powers swept across Africa. By November 1960, France passed significant legislation granting independence to three of its colonies: Dahomey (now Benin), Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso), and Niger. This legislation was part of a broader trend in which many African nations were achieving independence from European colonial rule following World War II. These territories had experienced increased political mobilization led by nationalist leaders, who sought greater autonomy and the right to self-governance.

The push for independence in Dahomey, Upper Volta, and Niger came as a result of various factors, including the impact of World War II, the formation of pan-African ideologies, and the increasing influence of global calls for decolonization. Leaders in these territories, such as Hubert Maga in Dahomey and Maurice Yaméogo in Upper Volta, played crucial roles in negotiating the terms of independence. Their actions contributed to a significant milestone in the history of West Africa, as these nations joined the ranks of independent states, ready to navigate the complexities of self-rule.

The process leading up to the legislation involved debates over governance structures, economic strategies, and the social future of the newly independent nations. France's decision to allow these countries to become independent was symbolically important, as it signaled the end of colonialism in that region, enabling these nations to pursue their own developmental paths. The independence of Dahomey, Upper Volta, and Niger marked a new beginning for their citizens and set a precedent for other African nations still under colonial rule.