Botswana Flag
*Botswana gained independence from Britain on this date in 1966. It was one of the many African countries exploited after the Berlin Conference of 1884. Botswana was near South Africa on the continent's west side in June 1966. After 80 years as a British protectorate, Britain accepted proposals for democratic self-government.
In 1965, the seat of government was moved from Mafikeng in South Africa to the newly established Gaborone. The 1965 constitution led to the first general elections. Previously known as Bechuanaland, Botswana gained independence from Britain under the leadership of Seretse Khama.
Khama was elected president by the National Assembly in 1966 and then reelected for two additional terms until he passed away in 1980. Botswana is rich in natural resources like diamonds, and today, the country has achieved one of the highest per capita income rates in Africa.
