Independence Day in the Central African Republic is observed every year on August 13. This public holiday commemorates the country’s formal independence from France in 1960. The Central African Republic, originally part of the Upper-Oubangui territory governed by Sudan in the mid-19th century, became a French protectorate in 1894 when France established the Ubangi-Shari territory. Following a period of forced labor and poor conditions under French administration, nationalist leader Barthélémy Boganda declared the establishment of the Central African Republic in 1957, becoming its first Prime Minister. After his death, David Dacko succeeded him and became the first President upon independence. The day is marked by celebrations reflecting national pride and remembrance of the struggle for independence.