League of Nations Mandates for Togoland and Tanganyika

July 20th, 1922

July 20th, 1922

League of Nations Mandates for Togoland and Tanganyika
How Long Ago?

102 years, 7 months, 22 days ago

Location

Geneva, Switzerland

Category

Politics & Government

Links & References
Tags

League of Nations Mandates for Togoland and Tanganyika

The League of Nations officially awarded mandates for Togoland to France and Tanganyika to the United Kingdom, establishing colonial administration over these territories. This decision was made during a session of the League, reflecting the post-World War I reshaping of global governance and colonial boundaries. The League sought to promote peace through the administration of these mandates, aiming to prepare them for self-governance. The formalization of these mandates marked a significant moment in the reorganization of African territories.

Established colonial mandates after World War I

Togoland assigned to France; Tanganyika to UK

Intended to prepare territories for self-governance

Reflected global shifts in governance and borders

What Happened?

The League of Nations convened following World War I to establish a new international order, which included the administration of former German colonies. On this occasion, the League awarded mandates for two territories: Togoland, located in West Africa, was entrusted to France, while Tanganyika, situated in East Africa, became a mandate of the United Kingdom. This allocation was part of a broader strategy to manage territories deemed incapable of self-governance after the defeat of Germany in the war.

The mandates were grounded in the belief that European powers would assist these regions in developing their political, social, and economic structures. France was tasked with overseeing Togoland, where it aimed to enhance French influence in West Africa. Similarly, the British administration in Tanganyika sought to establish effective governance structures while integrating local customs and practices into colonial administration.

The decisions made by the League of Nations regarding these mandates drew criticism and support, reflecting the complexities of colonialism. Some saw these mandates as a step toward eventual independence, while others viewed them as a means for imperial powers to maintain control over resources and local populations. The awarding of mandates to France and Britain cemented their status as colonial powers in Africa and significantly influenced regional politics for decades to come.

Why Does it Matter?

The awarding of mandates for Togoland and Tanganyika laid the groundwork for the modern administrative boundaries and governance structures in these regions. This event is interesting as it showcases how the League of Nations attempted to create a system for overseeing former colonies, which shaped the trajectory of decolonization movements later in the 20th century. The actions taken under these mandates had far-reaching implications for national identities and struggles for independence in the respective territories.

Discover More Historic Events from July 20th

Space Exploration

Jeff Bezos' Historic Flight to Space

July 20th, 2021 3 years ago

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, successfully flew to space aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard NS-16 on a ten-minute suborbital flight. The spacecraft launched from West Texas, carrying Bezos and three other crew members, including his brother Mark Bezos and aviation pioneer Wally Funk. The mission marked a pivotal moment for private spaceflight, showcasing advancements in commercial space travel and bringing attention to Blue Origin's future ambitions in space exploration.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

O. J. Simpson Paroled After Nine Years

July 20th, 2017 7 years ago

O. J. Simpson was granted parole after serving nine years out of a 33-year sentence for armed robbery. The decision was made during a hearing held by a Nevada parole board where members discussed his rehabilitation and behavior in prison. Simpson expressed remorse and a desire to reunite with family. The hearing was attended by over 50 people, and many expressed support for Simpson's release.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Devastating Explosion in Suruç, Turkey

July 20th, 2015 9 years ago

A massive explosion targeted the Socialist Youth Associations Federation in Suruç, a predominantly Kurdish town in Turkey, killing at least 31 individuals and injuring over 100. This attack occurred in the context of rising tensions in the region, particularly related to the Kurdish political movement and its opposition to the Turkish state. The bombing struck during a peace rally, aimed at promoting Kurdish rights and solidarity, marking a significant moment of violence in an already turbulent area.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

U.S. and Cuba Reestablish Diplomatic Relations

July 20th, 2015 9 years ago

The United States and Cuba officially resumed full diplomatic relations after over five decades of hostilities, marked by the reopening of embassies in Washington, D.C., and Havana. This significant move represented a thawing of Cold War tensions and was celebrated by many in both countries as a step towards reconciliation. John Kerry, then U.S. Secretary of State, visited Cuba for the flag-raising ceremony at the U.S. Embassy, symbolizing a new era in U.S.-Cuba relations following years of negotiations.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

FARC Attack Claims Lives of 17 Soldiers

July 20th, 2013 11 years ago

In a significant clash, seventeen government soldiers were killed by FARC revolutionaries in the Arauca department of Colombia. This violent incident was part of the ongoing conflict that has plagued Colombia for decades, where FARC engaged in combat against government forces for ideological and territorial control. The attack underscored the strength and operational capability of the FARC, particularly in remote regions like Arauca, where they have historically maintained influence and support.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

YPG Expels Islamist Forces from Ras al-Ayn

July 20th, 2013 11 years ago

The Battle of Ras al-Ayn concluded with the People's Protection Units (YPG) successfully expelling Islamist forces from the city in July 2013. The assault marked a significant shift in control over the northeastern city along the Syrian-Turkish border. This victory for the YPG solidified their influence in the region, showcasing their military capabilities and resilience against extremist groups. The battle drew international attention to the complexities of the Syrian civil war, highlighting the differing factions at play.

Continue Reading