Somalia Colonial Records

British Somaliland (1888-1960)
In 1888, the British established a protectorate in the region, naming it British Somaliland. In August 1940 during World War II, Italy invaded British Somaliland, but British forces recaptured their protectorate in 1941. Britain retained control of both British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland after World War II as British protectorates. In June 1960, British Somaliland gained independence and became the State of Somaliland. Five days later, the State of Somaliland joined with Italian Somaliland and became the current Somali Republic.

Italian Somaliland (1889-1941)
In the late 19th century, Italy gained control of parts of the coast of Somali, establishing Italian Somaliland. In 1920 an agricultural settlement was founded, and in 1923, a governor was named to oversee the colony. In June 1960, Italian Somaliland joined with the State of Somaliland (formerly British Somaliland) to become the independent Republic of Somalia.