Madagascar History

Madagascar separated from Africa's main continent about 160 million years ago. Most archeologists estimate that settlement in the country started between 200 to 500 AD, when seafarers from Southeast Asia arrived there in outrigger canoes. Several nationalities followed, including the Mikea hunter-gatherers, and the Anteimoro from Somalia who established a southern kingdom in the Middle Ages.

The country's written history started in 7th century through Muslim influence. During the Middle Ages, the island's kings became powerful trading partners of their neighbors in the Indian Ocean, particularly, the Arabs, Persians and Somalis.

During the era of the chiefdoms, Madagascar became an important port in the trade route to the Silk Road. The wealth the country garnered from the trade created a state system led by regional monarchs known as the Maroserana.

The Portuguese captain, Diego Dias, saw the country in 1500. This started a trading relationship between Portugal and Madagascar.

From 1774 to 1824, the country became a favorite lair of pirates. Many European sailors who were shipwrecked on the island called it "Island of the Moon."

In 1883, France invaded the island. During World War II, the country fought under the flag of France. There were plans to deport Europe's Jews to Madagascar, but this never happened. After France fell to Germany, the Germans handled Madagascar. Nonetheless, France took control of the island again after the British defeated the Japanese, who seized the island in 1942.

After more wars and several uprisings, the country was declared independent in June 1960.