On this date in 1960 Mali became a fully independent Republic. This area which was known for its salt and gold trade had been colonized by the French since the 1880's. Mali was previously part of a federation that was made up of Senegal and Mali but it spit in June of 1960 which gave way for Mali to become fully independent. Modibo Keïta was elected the first president of the new nation. Historically Mali is known for the great empire in West Africa that lasted for over 400 years.