From British Protectorate to Sovereign State: 1884 — 1991
Following the Berlin Conference, Britain establishes a protectorate over the northern Somali coast, signing treaties with local clans. This marks the beginning of 76 years of British colonial administration.
politicalThe Somali National League (SNL) is established as the first major political organization, advocating for Somali unity and eventual independence from colonial rule.
politicalAgainst the wishes of Somalilanders, Britain hands over the Reserve Area (Hawd) to Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie. The people express deep disappointment, wearing white sheets (Weer Cad) to mourn the loss.
diplomaticFirst democratic elections held under British administration. The Somali National League (SNL) wins 20 of 33 seats. The United Somali Party (USP) wins 12 seats. SNL and USP form an alliance to govern.
politicalSomaliland cabinet led by Mohamed Ibrahim Egal meets with British counterparts in London for ten days of negotiations. The British government agrees to grant independence to Somaliland as an independent state.
diplomaticAt midnight, the State of Somaliland gains independence from Britain. The Union Jack is lowered at 5 PM with military honors. At midnight, the new Somaliland flag is raised. Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal takes oath as Prime Minister. Independence is recognized by 35 countries including the UK, USA, Egypt, Israel, China, and the Soviet Union.
politicalThe Somaliland Legislative Assembly unanimously passes the Law of Union with Somalia, authorizing the merger with the Trust Territory of Somalia upon its independence.
politicalThe State of Somaliland unites with the Trust Territory of Somalia to form the Somali Republic. Aden Abdullah Osman Daar becomes President and Abdirashid Ali Shermarke becomes Prime Minister.
politicalNorthern officers stage a coup to reverse the union, angered by power concentration in the south. The referendum is boycotted in Somaliland. Officers Abdullah Saeed Abbi, Mohammed Ahmed, and Hassan Kayd lead the attempt.
militaryFollowing the collapse of the Somali central government and the genocidal bombing of Hargeisa, the Grand Conference of Northern Clans in Burao reclaims Somaliland independence, re-establishing the sovereign state.
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