Chad earned independence on this day in 1960 and Sara François Tombalbaye became its first president.
Three years before, Chad had become a territory of France under the leadership of Gabriel Lisette, a West Indian. After more agitation for complete independence by the people, the country in 1958, became an autonomous republic within the French Community and an independent nation on August 11 1960.
The country has had its fair share of tribulations and is currently dealing with Boko Haram insurgents as well as refugees from the neighbouring Central African Republic.
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But not everything is strife and problems. The country is home to one of the biggest festivals, the Gerewol annual courtship ritual and the diversity in terms of culture and wildlife.
It is also home to some of Africa’s and world’s iconic people, including the following six people.
