History of Togo: From Ancient Kingdoms to Modern Democracy

From Ancient Civilizations to Independence and Modern Governance – A Complete History of Togo

Togo, a small yet historically rich country in West Africa, has a complex past that spans ancient civilizations, colonial rule, and modern political developments. This article delves into the detailed history of Togo, addressing key questions such as: What is the old name of Togo?, What is Togo most famous for?, and What religion is Togo?

Where is Togo Located?

Togo is situated in West Africa, bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east, Burkina Faso to the north, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. Its capital city is Lomé. As of 2025, Togo's population is estimated at approximately 9.7 million people .

What is the Old Name of Togo?

Before gaining independence, Togo was known as French Togoland. Originally, it was a German protectorate called Togoland, established in 1884. Following Germany's defeat in World War I, the territory was divided between the British and the French, with the eastern part becoming French Togoland .

Ancient and Pre-Colonial History

Togo's history dates back to ancient times, with various ethnic groups such as the Ewe, Mina, and Kabye establishing settlements. The coastal region was part of the Slave Coast, a term used due to its involvement in the transatlantic slave trade from the 16th to the 19th centuries .

Colonial Era: German and French Rule

In 1884, Germany established a protectorate over Togoland. During this period, the Germans developed infrastructure but also imposed forced labor. In 1914, during World War I, British and French forces invaded Togoland, leading to its division. The eastern part became French Togoland, administered under a League of Nations mandate .

Path to Independence

French Togoland gained autonomy in 1956 and achieved full independence on April 27, 1960, becoming the Togolese Republic. Sylvanus Olympio became the first president. In 1961, the new constitution established the National Assembly of Togo as the supreme legislative body. However, Olympio's tenure was marked by political unrest, leading to his assassination in 1963 .

Political Turbulence and Military Rule

Following Olympio's death, Gnassingbé Eyadéma seized power in 1967, ruling Togo for 38 years. His regime was characterized by authoritarianism and a one-party system. After his death in 2005, his son, Faure Gnassingbé, assumed the presidency. In 2024, constitutional changes transformed Togo into a parliamentary system, with Faure expected to take on a new role as president of the council of ministers .

History of Togo Timeline

• Pre-16th Century: Settlement by various ethnic groups.

• 16th–19th Centuries: Involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.

• 1884: Establishment of German Togoland.

• 1914: Invasion by British and French forces.

• 1916: Division into British and French Togoland.

• 1956: Autonomy within the French Union.

• 1960: Independence as the Togolese Republic.

• 1961: Sylvanus Olympio becomes president.

• 1963: Olympio assassinated.

• 1967: Gnassingbé Eyadéma seizes power.

• 2005: Faure Gnassingbé becomes president.

• 2024: Constitutional changes establish a parliamentary system.

What is Togo Most Famous For?

Togo is renowned for its diverse cultures, traditional festivals, and historical sites. Notable attractions include the Koutammakou landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vibrant markets of Lomé. The country is also known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade and its colonial history.

Religion in Togo

Togo is religiously diverse. According to estimates:

• Christianity: 47.8%

• Traditional faiths: 33%

• Islam: 18.4%

• Other: 0.8%

Traditional religions, including Vodun (Voodoo), play a significant role in Togolese culture.

Languages Spoken in Togo

The official language of Togo is French. Additionally, the government recognizes two national languages: Ewé and Kabyé. Other widely spoken languages include Mina, Tem, and Dagomba .

Togo Population

As of 2025, Togo's population is estimated at approximately 9.7 million people . The country has a population density of about 179 people per square kilometer.

History of Togo Slavery

Togo's coastal region was a significant center for the transatlantic slave trade, earning it the moniker "The Slave Coast". From the 16th to the 19th centuries, European traders established forts and trading posts along the coast, facilitating the export of enslaved Africans to the Americas .

What are 5 Facts About Togo?

1. Independence: Togo gained independence from France on April 27, 1960.

2. Official Language: French is the official language, with Ewé and Kabyé as national languages.

3. Religion: The country has a diverse religious landscape, including Christianity, Islam, and traditional faiths.

4. Political History: Togo has experienced periods of political instability and authoritarian rule.

5. Cultural Heritage: Togo is known for its rich cultural traditions, festivals, and historical sites.

FAQs About the History of Togo

Q: What is the old name of Togo?

A: Before independence, Togo was known as French Togoland.

Q: What is Togo most famous for?

A: Togo is renowned for its cultural diversity, historical sites, and role in the transatlantic slave trade.

Q: What religion is Togo?

A: Togo has a diverse religious landscape, including Christianity, traditional faiths, and Islam.

Q: What languages are spoken in Togo?

A: The official language is French, with Ewé and Kabyé as national languages.

Q: What is the population of Togo?

A: As of 2025, the population is estimated at approximately 9.7 million people.

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This article provides a comprehensive overview of Togo's history, addressing key aspects from its ancient origins to modern developments.