Timeline of The Gambia

Chronology

15 events spanning the history of The Gambia. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1455

   Portuguese establish trading stations along Gambia river.

   Portuguese establish trading stations along Gambia river.

2. 1618

   Portugal sells its rights to the coastal region to Britain.

   Portugal sells its rights to the coastal region to Britain.

3. 1642

   France founds a trading post on the Gambia river.

   France founds a trading post on the Gambia river.

4. 1658

   James Island given over to the Dutch.

   James Island given over to the Dutch.

5. 1665 – 1667

   James Island recaptured by Britain during the Second Dutch War.

   James Island recaptured by Britain during the Second Dutch War.

6. 1866 – 1888

   The Gambia is governed as part of Sierra Leone.

   The Gambia is governed as part of Sierra Leone.

7. 1888

   The Gambia becomes British Crown Colony.

   The Gambia becomes British Crown Colony.

8. 1889

   Boundaries of The Gambia and Senegal agreed between Britain and France.

   Boundaries of The Gambia and Senegal agreed between Britain and France.

9. 1906

   Slavery in The Gambia is abolished.

   Slavery in The Gambia is abolished.

10. 1965

    The Gambia becomes independent with Dawda Jawara as prime minister.

    The Gambia becomes independent with Dawda Jawara as prime minister.