When was south sudan founded?

By HotBotUpdated: August 6, 2024

Introduction to South Sudan

South Sudan, the world's newest nation, officially became an independent country on July 9, 2011. This monumental event marked the culmination of decades of conflict and a long, arduous journey towards self-determination. The path to independence was fraught with historical complexities, political struggles, and social upheavals that have shaped the identity and future of this nascent country.

Historical Background

Colonial Era and Sudan's Formation

The roots of South Sudan's quest for independence can be traced back to the colonial era when Sudan was under British and Egyptian rule. The Anglo-Egyptian Condominium, which lasted from 1899 to 1956, governed Sudan as a single entity but administratively divided it into the largely Arab-Muslim North and the predominantly African-Christian South. This division laid the groundwork for future discord.

Independence of Sudan

Sudan gained independence from British-Egyptian rule on January 1, 1956. However, the newly formed nation was immediately beset by internal strife. Southern Sudanese felt marginalized by the northern-dominated government, which sought to impose its Arab-Islamic identity on the diverse southern population. These tensions eventually led to the First Sudanese Civil War (1955-1972).

First and Second Sudanese Civil Wars

First Sudanese Civil War (1955-1972)

The First Sudanese Civil War erupted even before Sudan officially gained independence. The conflict was primarily between the Sudanese government and the southern rebels, who demanded greater autonomy and equitable treatment. The war ended with the Addis Ababa Agreement in 1972, which granted the South regional autonomy.

Second Sudanese Civil War (1983-2005)

The fragile peace established by the Addis Ababa Agreement was short-lived. In 1983, Sudanese President Jaafar Nimeiri abrogated the agreement, leading to the Second Sudanese Civil War. This conflict was even more devastating, lasting 22 years and resulting in over 2 million deaths and millions more displaced. The Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA), led by John Garang, spearheaded the southern resistance.

Comprehensive Peace Agreement

The Second Sudanese Civil War ended with the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) on January 9, 2005, between the Sudanese government and the SPLA. The CPA laid out a framework for a six-year transitional period, after which a referendum on southern independence would be held. Key provisions included wealth and power-sharing agreements and the establishment of a semi-autonomous Government of Southern Sudan.

The Independence Referendum

Referendum Process

In January 2011, the long-awaited referendum on South Sudanese independence took place. The process was overseen by the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission and international observers to ensure its fairness and transparency. The referendum saw an overwhelming turnout, with nearly 99% of voters opting for independence.

Declaration of Independence

Following the successful referendum, South Sudan declared its independence on July 9, 2011. The new nation was promptly recognized by the international community, including the United Nations, which admitted South Sudan as its 193rd member state on July 14, 2011.

Challenges and Opportunities

Internal Challenges

Despite the euphoria surrounding its independence, South Sudan has faced numerous challenges. Internal conflicts, primarily between different ethnic groups and political factions, have plagued the country. The most significant of these was the civil war that erupted in December 2013 between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with former Vice President Riek Machar. This conflict has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Economic Opportunities

South Sudan is endowed with substantial natural resources, particularly oil, which has the potential to drive its economic development. However, the country has struggled to harness these resources effectively due to persistent conflict, corruption, and infrastructural deficits.

International Relations

Relations with Sudan

South Sudan's relationship with Sudan has been complex and often strained. Issues such as border demarcation, the status of the Abyei region, and the sharing of oil revenues have led to periodic tensions. However, both countries have engaged in negotiations to address these contentious issues.

Global Partnerships

Since its independence, South Sudan has sought to build strong relationships with various international partners. Countries such as the United States, Norway, and the United Kingdom have provided substantial humanitarian and development assistance. Regional organizations like the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have also played crucial roles in mediating conflicts and supporting peacebuilding efforts.

Cultural Identity

South Sudan is a mosaic of diverse ethnic groups, languages, and cultures. The country is home to over 60 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and customs. This cultural diversity is both a source of strength and a challenge as the nation strives to forge a unified identity.

Current Status and Future Prospects

South Sudan remains a country in transition, grappling with the legacies of conflict while striving for peace and development. The 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) offers a renewed hope for stability and progress. The agreement calls for the formation of a unity government and outlines measures for security, governance, and economic reform.

As South Sudan continues its journey as an independent nation, it stands at a crossroads. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but the resilience and determination of its people offer a beacon of hope. How this young nation navigates its future will shape not only its destiny but also that of the broader region.

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