When did most nations in south east asia gain independence from western powers?
Most nations in Southeast Asia gained independence from western powers after World War II, between the late 1940s and early 1950s. The specific dates vary for each country, but here are some important milestones:
1. The Philippines: The Philippines gained independence from the United States on July 4, 1946, after being granted its independence in 1935 and then delayed due to World War II.
2. Indonesia: Indonesia declared its independence from the Netherlands on August 17, 1945, following four years of Japanese occupation during World War II. However, it took until 1949 for the Netherlands to officially recognize Indonesian independence.
3. Myanmar (formerly Burma): Myanmar gained independence from Britain on January 4, 1948.
4. Malaysia: Malaysia gained independence from Britain on August 31, 1957.
5. Singapore: Singapore gained self-governance from Britain on June 3, 1959, and merged with Malaysia in 1963. However, it separated from Malaysia and became an independent nation on August 9, 1965.
6. Thailand: Thailand, also known as Siam, is the only country in Southeast Asia that was never formally colonized. It managed to maintain its independence during the colonial period.
7. Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia: These countries gained independence from France in the mid-20th century. Vietnam was divided into North and South Vietnam, and both entities gained independence in 1954 after the First Indochina War. Cambodia gained full independence in 1953, while Laos gained independence in 1954.