Senegalese independence refers to the process through which Senegal gained its sovereignty from France. This significant event occurred on April 4, 1960, marking the end of colonial rule that had lasted for over 100 years. The movement for independence was fueled by a growing sense of nationalism and the desire for self-governance among the Senegalese people. The independence movement was led by key figures such as Léopold Sédar Senghor, who later became the first president of Senegal. Following independence, Senegal established itself as a republic and sought to promote unity and development, becoming a model for other African nations pursuing independence.