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Independence days

Uganda

9 October 1962

Sovereignty from
the United Kingdom
Marked as
Independence Day
Years sovereign
64

The struggle

Britain ruled Uganda through the kingdom of Buganda, whose privileged status shaped every negotiation about the future state. The exile of the Kabaka in 1953 galvanised nationalism, and the Uganda National Congress and later Obote's UPC built a wider movement. Independence came on 9 October 1962 under a federal compromise that soon broke down.

Key people

  • Milton Obote

    1925–2005

    First prime minister

  • Mutesa II

    1924–1969

    Kabaka of Buganda, exiled in 1953; first president

  • Ignatius Musaazi

    1905–1990

    Founded the Uganda National Congress in 1952

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