Determining the "first" country to gain independence depends on how we define "independence." There are two main interpretations:
1. First Country to Declare Independence:
- The United States of America is often considered the first country to declare independence. The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776, marking the beginning of the American Revolutionary War and the separation from British rule.
2. First Country to Achieve Independence:
- The United States of America again takes the lead here, as it officially won its independence from Great Britain in 1783 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris.
However, other countries have a strong claim to being the "first" depending on the criteria used:
- Haiti gained independence from France in 1804, making it the first successful slave revolt and the first independent Black republic.
- The Dominican Republic declared independence from Spain in 1821, but was briefly annexed by Haiti before regaining its independence in 1844.
- The Republic of Texas declared independence from Mexico in 1836, but was later annexed by the United States in 1845.
Ultimately, the answer to "which country got independence first" depends on your definition of independence. It's important to consider the different historical contexts and recognize the complexities of achieving independence for various nations.
