Uganda Senior Six (S6) History

Pre-Colonial Uganda

Pre-colonial Uganda was comprised of several independent kingdoms and societies. Bunyoro-Kitara, Buganda, Ankole, and Karagwe are among the most prominent kingdoms. These kingdoms, particularly Bunyoro-Kitara, held significant influence in the region. Bunyoro-Kitara's dominance lasted until the late 17th century. Buganda, located near Lake Victoria, also played a crucial role in the region's history. These kingdoms shared a common Bacwezi heritage. The northern regions were inhabited by Nilotic and Sudanic language speakers, while Bantu languages were prevalent in the central, western, and southern areas.

Colonial Era

British colonization of Uganda began around 1860. In 1888, Britain granted the British East Africa Company political and economic control over the region. By the end of the 19th century, Uganda became a British protectorate.

Independence and Post-Colonial Period

Uganda gained independence in 1962, with Milton Obote as its first prime minister. A new constitution in 1967 declared Uganda a republic, granting the president increased powers and abolishing traditional kingdoms. The 1966 Mengo Crisis marked a significant conflict with the Buganda kingdom. Idi Amin's military coup in 1971 ushered in a brutal regime marked by mass killings and economic decline, lasting until his overthrow in 1979. The Uganda National Liberation Front (UNLF) was formed by Ugandan exiles in Moshi, Tanzania, in 1979.