Historical Events tagged with "burkina faso"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

Terrorist Attacks in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

January 16th, 2016 9 years ago

Terror attacks struck a hotel and restaurant in Ouagadougou, resulting in 23 deaths and injuries to 33 others among hostages. The attacks were attributed to jihadists and involved armed assaults against civilians in popular locations, causing widespread panic and showcasing the increasing instability in the Sahel region.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Air Algérie Flight 5017 Disappears Over Mali

July 24th, 2014 10 years ago

Air Algérie Flight 5017 lost contact with air traffic control approximately 50 minutes after takeoff from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, while en route to Algiers, Algeria. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-83, was carrying 116 people, including passengers and crew. Recovery efforts later located the wreckage in northern Mali. All individuals on board were confirmed deceased, prompting investigations into the incident.

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Politics & Government

Upper Volta Becomes Burkina Faso

August 4th, 1984 40 years ago

On August 4, 1984, the Republic of Upper Volta officially changed its name to Burkina Faso. The new name, which means 'Land of Upright People' in the Mossi language, reflects the country's cultural identity and aspirations for unity. The renaming was part of a broader effort by President Thomas Sankara to promote national self-determination and galvanize the populace towards social and political reform. The name change occurred during a ceremony in the capital, Ouagadougou, reinforcing the importance of national pride.

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Politics & Government

Thomas Sankara Ousts Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo

August 4th, 1983 41 years ago

Captain Thomas Sankara led a coup d'état in Upper Volta, ousting President Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo. The coup was motivated by widespread dissatisfaction with Ouédraogo's government, including allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Sankara, a popular military leader, rose to power quickly, appealing to the hopes and needs of the people for economic and social reforms. The coup marked a significant turning point in the country’s political landscape, with Sankara promising a new era of governance.

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Politics & Government

Colonel Saye Zerbo Ousts Sangoulé Lamizana

November 25th, 1980 44 years ago

Colonel Saye Zerbo led a coup d'état in Upper Volta, overthrowing President Sangoulé Lamizana. This power shift occurred due to growing dissatisfaction with Lamizana's administration, marked by economic struggles and political unrest. The coup took place without significant violence, showcasing a notable moment in the country’s political history. Following the coup, Zerbo established a military regime with promises of stability and reform, but lasting change proved complex.

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Politics & Government

Upper Volta Achieves Independence from France

August 5th, 1960 64 years ago

Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper Volta, attained full sovereignty from French colonial rule. The independence was a reflection of growing nationalist sentiments in Africa, culminating in a transfer of power from colonial administrators to local governance. The event marked a significant turning point in the country's history and set the stage for its future identity and development. National Day celebrations on the 5th of August continue to resonate in contemporary Burkina Faso society, symbolizing freedom and self-determination.

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Politics & Government

Dahomey, Upper Volta, and Niger Gain Independence

July 11th, 1960 64 years ago

On November 7, 1960, France enacted legislation granting full independence to Dahomey, Upper Volta, and Niger. This decision followed a wave of decolonization across Africa, reflecting the growing demands for autonomy among former colonies. Each country underwent a process of establishing its governance, marking a significant shift in political power away from colonial rule. The legislation symbolized France's acknowledgment of the right to self-determination, a principle growing more significant in international politics during the post-war era.

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