A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Chad

Summary

The United States recognized the Republic of Chad on August 11, 1960, in a congratulatory message from President Dwight D. Eisenhower to Prime Minister Tombalbaye.

Modern Flag of Chad

Recognition

U.S. Recognition of Chad’s Independence, 1960.

The United States recognized the Republic of Chad on August 11, 1960, in a congratulatory message from President Dwight D. Eisenhower to Prime Minister Tombalbaye. On that date, Chad’s independence from French Equatorial Africa was proclaimed.

Diplomatic Relations

Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, 1960.

Diplomatic relations were established on August 11, 1960, when the American Consul at Brazzaville, Alan W. Lukens, presented his credentials as Charge d’Affaires.

Establishment of the American Embassy in Chad, 1961.

Embassy Fort Lamy (now N’Djamena) was established on February 1, 1961, with Frederic L. Chapin as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.

American Embassy Closed, 1980.

The Embassy in N’Djamena was closed on March 24, 1980, when American diplomatic personnel were evacuated following the outbreak of heavy fighting in the city.

American Embassy Reopened, 1982.

The Embassy in N’Djamena was reopened on January 15, 1982, with John Blane as Principal Officer and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.

Resources

  • CIA World Factbook: Chad
  • Department of State Country Fact Sheet: Chad
  • Department of State Country Information: Chad
  • Library of Congress Country Study: Chad