Due to its strategic position, Mauritius was a prized target for European countries looking to establish control and trade routes in the Indian Ocean. Mauritius passed through Dutch, French and finally British control, becoming a colony of Britain in March 1810.
Mauritius was named by the Dutch in honour of Prince Maurits van Nassau in the 17th century.
In 1959, British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan had given his famous ‘Winds of Change’ speech, stating the British government’s intention to give independence to many of its overseas colonies. This led to an increasing call within Mauritius for self-rule.
The elections of 1966 resulted in a victory for an alliance of the Mauritius Labour Party and other self-rule parties.
On March 12th 1968, Mauritius adopted its new constitution and gained independence as a constitutional monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II remained head of state and Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan became the first Prime Minister of Mauritius.
Exactly twenty-four years later, on March 12th 1992, Mauritius was proclaimed as a republic within the British Commonwealth.
To mark National Day, Mauritians will show their pride in their nation by displaying their colourful flag across the island. An official flag-raising ceremony takes place with military parades and live music.