Namibia
Historical Events
1884 - German Colonization
The German Empire established control over the territory, forming German South West Africa.
1904 - Herero and Nama Genocide
German troops launched a punitive campaign against the Herero and Nama, resulting in the first genocide of the 20th century.
1915 - End of German Rule
German rule in Namibia ended with a defeat by South African forces during World War I.
1920 - League of Nations Mandate
Administration of the territory was mandated to South Africa by the League of Nations.
1948 - Apartheid Implementation
The National Party in South Africa applied apartheid policies to South West Africa.
1966 - UN Takes Responsibility
The United Nations assumed direct responsibility for the territory, amidst local uprisings.
1973 - SWAPO Recognition
The UN recognized the South West Africa People's Organisation as the official representative of the Namibian people.
1990 - Namibia's Independence
Namibia gained independence from South Africa on March 21, following the South African Border War.
1994 - Final South African Control
Walvis Bay and the Penguin Islands were returned to Namibia, ending South African control.