History
France invaded Chad at the end of the nineteenth century. In the early part of the twentieth century Chad became one of four territories of the Federation of French Equatorial Africa - Afrique Equatoriale Francaise (AEF).

In 1946 Chad was made an Overseas Territory of France, gaining independence in 1960. Other former AEF members - Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, and Gabon - also achieved independence.

Following independence, Chad suffered years of ethnic warfare, invasion by Libya and cyclical droughts.

Economy
Chad is estimated to be one of the poorest countries of the world.

A large percentage of Chad's working population is engaged in subsistence farming, herding and fishing.

Cotton, cattle and gum Arabic are important exports. Agricultural products are rice, millet, sorghum, potatoes, manioc (cassava) and peanuts.

Significant natural resources include gold and uranium. Chad became an oil exporting country in 2004. A pipeline from Chad pumps oil through an underground pipeline to tankers in coastal Cameroon.

Chad's oil production is dominated by the China National Petroleum Company in Chad and the ExxonMobil-led Esso Exploration & Production Chad Inc.

Arts
There are around two hundred ethnic groups in Chad, each with its own traditions and culture.

Crafts include basket weaving, woven mats, carpets, rugs, wood carving, pottery and jewellery. Ancient rock art, found in areas of Chad, is reproduced on embroidered table cloths and wall hangings.

Various ethnic dances are performed by the Chadian National Ballet.

Sport
Football is the most popular sport in Chad. Basketball is also played.

Holidays
All religious holidays are celebrated. Independence Day is on 11 August (1960 from France).

News
News from Chad is available in Newslink.

Previous Page | Facts | Gallery