Papua New Guinea (PNG) gained its independence from Australia on September 16, 1975. Before becoming a sovereign nation, PNG was governed under several different colonial powers. The eastern half of the island, which comprises modern-day PNG, was divided between Germany (in the north) and Britain (in the south) during the late 19th century. Following World War I, Australia took control of both German New Guinea and British Papua under a mandate from the League of Nations.
During World War II, PNG was a major battleground between Allied and Japanese forces, with many indigenous Papuans and New Guineans assisting the Allies. After the war, the territories of Papua and New Guinea were combined into a single administrative entity under Australian control.
The drive for independence gained momentum in the 1960s, partly due to the global wave of decolonization and the desire of the people of PNG to govern themselves. Australia granted PNG limited self-government in 1973, and following peaceful negotiations, full independence was achieved on September 16, 1975.
PNG’s first Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare, is often referred to as the “Father of the Nation” for his leadership in guiding the country toward independence. The date is now celebrated annually as Independence Day, a national holiday marked by cultural festivities, parades, traditional music, and dances that showcase the nation’s rich diversity. PNG’s independence was peaceful, and the country remains a member of the Commonwealth, recognizing the British monarch as the ceremonial head of state.–Worldwide Events