Senegal to Conduct Archaeological Excavations to Uncover Truth About Thiaroye Massacre
Background: The Thiaroye Massacre
On December 1, 1944, French colonial forces opened fire on African tirailleurs (soldiers) who had returned from fighting in Europe during World War II. The soldiers, who hailed not only from Senegal but also from other African countries, were demanding payment of their outstanding salaries.
The exact circumstances surrounding the massacre, the number of casualties, the identities of the victims, and their burial sites remain shrouded in mystery. French authorities at the time admitted to 35 deaths, but historians estimate the death toll to be much higher, potentially reaching 400.
Government Announcement
On February 19, 2023, the Senegalese government announced that "archaeological excavations" would be conducted to "know the truth" about the Thiaroye massacre. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko stated that the excavations were necessary due to the lack of information available to fully understand the事件.
Nature of the Excavations
The specific sites of the archaeological excavations have not yet been determined. Potential locations include:
- A cemetery on the outskirts of Dakar where victims are believed to be buried
- The military camp where the massacre occurred
- Both locations
Researchers have long called for archaeological excavations at these sites to supplement the existing historical record on the Thiaroye massacre.
Government Initiatives
The newly elected Senegalese government, which advocates for a break from the past and asserts sovereignty, has established a committee of researchers to investigate the massacre and submit a report by April.
President Macron of France acknowledged the massacre as such on the eve of its 80th anniversary, December 1, 2024. Senegal commemorated the event this year with unprecedented solemnity at the Thiaroye military camp.
The Senegalese government has announced that streets, squares, and buildings will be named after victims of the massacre, and its history will be taught in schools.
Ongoing Investigation
The archaeological excavations are expected to shed light on the following aspects of the Thiaroye massacre:
- The number of tirailleurs killed
- Their identities
- Their burial site
- The precise circumstances of the mass shooting
The findings of the excavations, along with the report of the government-appointed committee, are expected to provide a more accurate and complete understanding of this dark chapter in Senegalese history.
