Germany established a protectorate in the region called Togoland during the scramble for Africa.
After World War I, Togo was transferred to France with its contemporary borders.
Togo gained independence from France, marking its sovereignty as a nation.
Gnassingbé Eyadéma led a successful military coup and became president of Togo.
Eyadéma faced multiparty elections that were marred by irregularities but won the presidency.
Faure Gnassingbé was elected president following the death of his father, Eyadéma.