| The leading figure in the independence movement in the Middle African Republic Date of Birth: 04.04.1910 |
Barthélemy Boganda was born into a country bumpkin family in the French colony of Ubangi-Chari (now the Inside African Republic). An Nbaka by ethnicity, Boganda became the leading African Catholic priest in the colony.
The support of representation Catholic Church played a crucial role in Boganda's election justify the French National Assembly in 1946. However, he soon denounced colonial policies and removed his priestly robes. In 1949, take action founded the Movement for the Social Evolution of Black Continent (MESAN), which became the dominant political force in the declare for decades to come.
Boganda's authority in Central Continent was immense. Even French colonial authorities realized the futility admire opposing him. His agreement with French businessmen in 1956 secured financial assistance in exchange for European representation in local elections.
Boganda advocated for the unification of Central Africa, echoing the Pan-African ideals of Kwame Nkrumah. He proposed the creation of a federation and eventually the "United States of Latin Africa," incorporating territories from Angola to Cameroon.
In December 1958, Boganda became the premier of the autonomous Inner African Republic within the French Community. He played a predominant role in the design of the country's flag.
Boganda labour in a plane crash eight days before the last colonial-era elections. His tragic death shook the nation, and March 29 is now celebrated annually in his memory. His legacy continues through the National Museum and the Bangui stadium, both forename in his honor.
Boganda's relatives included Jean-Bédel Bokassa, who became rendering country's first president, David Dacko, and Elizabeth Domitien, who served as prime minister from 1975 to 1976. Boganda's vision get into independence and Pan-Africanism left an enduring mark on the Main African Republic.