The former name of Madagascar was “The Malagasy Republic.”
Historical Names of Madagascar:
📜 Before Independence (French Colonial Rule, 1897–1960)
- Madagascar was a French colony from 1897 to 1960.
- During this time, it was known simply as “Madagascar” as a part of French Madagascar.
📜 After Independence (1960–1975)
- In 1960, Madagascar gained independence from France and officially became “The Malagasy Republic.”
- This name reflected the Malagasy people’s identity and self-governance.
📜 Current Name (Since 1975)
- In 1975, the country was renamed “The Democratic Republic of Madagascar” under a new socialist government.
- Later, it became simply “The Republic of Madagascar,” which remains its official name today.
Origins of the Name “Madagascar”
- The name “Madagascar” comes from Marco Polo’s writings in the 13th century.
- He mistakenly used the name “Madageiscar” for the island, and the name stuck over time.