French Equatorial Africa was a former federation of French colonial territories located in West-Central Africa during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Spanning from 1910 to 1958, it encompassed the modern-day countries of Chad, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Gabon, and Cameroon.
French Equatorial Africa was established following the French conquest and colonization of these regions and was administratively divided into four major colonies: Ubangi-Shari (present-day Central African Republic and Chad), Chad, French Congo (Republic of the Congo), and Gabon. Cameroon, initially German territory, was also incorporated into the federation after World War I.
The primary objective of French Equatorial Africa was to exploit the region's abundant natural resources, including rubber, ivory, timber, and minerals, to satisfy the economic needs of the French Empire. The federation operated under a centralized administration, with all major decisions made by the French governor-general residing in Brazzaville, the capital of French Congo.
During its existence, French Equatorial Africa experienced considerable challenges, including resistance from local populations and conflicts with neighboring colonies such as British Nigeria. However, it also witnessed some development under French rule, including the construction of infrastructure such as railways, schools, hospitals, and the expansion of agricultural production.
The federation ceased to exist in 1958 when its member territories opted for separate pathways toward independence. Chad and Central African Republic gained independence in 1960, followed by Gabon in 1960, Congo in 1960, and Cameroon in 1960. Although the federation was short-lived, its legacy profoundly influenced the political, social, and economic structures of the countries that emerged from its dissolution.
