Senegal Colonial Records

Dutch Colonization (1627-1677)
In 1627 the Dutch West Indies Company settled the island of Gorée, building several forts and warehouses. The Dutch settlers occupied the island for nearly half a century, but were dislodged several times: in 1629 by the Portuguese, in 1645 and 1659 by the French and in 1663 by British troops.

French Colonization (1677-1960)
The French gained control of Senegal in 1677. During the 7 Years War (1756-1763) Britain took over the French posts in Senegal and formed a colony. However, in 1783 the Treaty of Versailles returned Senegal to France. Senegal became an independent country in 1960.