Gabon

Discover Gabon

Long before European influence, the lands we now call Gabon were inhabited by a mosaic of indigenous peoples. The Fang, Bantu, and other ethnic groups thrived, each with their own traditions and languages.

The late 15th century marked the arrival of European explorers, including the Portuguese, who sought to establish trade in ivory and other commodities. The French claimed a presence in the 19th century, establishing the territory of Gabon as part of French Equatorial Africa.

Throughout the colonial period, Gabon's fate was intertwined with the French Empire. The nation's resources, particularly rubber and timber, were heavily exploited. Yet, the indigenous cultures persisted, blending with French influences to create a unique Gabonese identity.

Independence arrived on August 17, 1960, and Léon M'ba became Gabon's first president. Gabon's journey through the 20th century saw the development of its rich culture, the discovery of significant oil reserves, and the establishment of its capital city, Libreville, as a center of commerce and diplomacy.

Today, Gabon is a nation of stunning biodiversity, preserving vast expanses of pristine rainforests.

Source ChatGPT