History of Niger
Humans have inhabited present-day Niger since prehistoric times, with evidence of early activity dating back 60,000 years. The region hosted ancient rock carvings and pastoral communities from 7,000 BCE. Once fertile, it supported large settlements and cattle herding until the climate became arid around 2500 BCE. By the 5th century BCE, Niger was part of trans-Saharan trade routes connecting West African empires to the Mediterranean. The introduction of the camel in the 3rd century facilitated more regular contact and trade across the Sahara. The area saw the rise and fall of empires, including the Songhai Empire, which controlled parts of Niger in the 15th and 16th centuries. French colonial rule began in the late 19th century, with Niger becoming a French colony in 1922. Post-World War II reforms led to limited self-governance, and Niger declared independence on August 3, 1960, with Hamani Diori as its first president. The country experienced periods of military and civilian rule, with significant political instability and economic challenges. Niger has faced ongoing security issues due to insurgencies and terrorism. Political developments include the transition to democratic civilian rule in the early 1990s and multiple constitutional changes. The 2021 presidential election saw Mohamed Bazoum elected, but he was ousted in a coup in 2023, leading to political uncertainty.
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