Djibouti (anthem)

Thematically, Elmi's lyrics reference the country's flag as it relates to Djibouti's struggle for independence. The French had staked claim to the region known as French Somaliland in the mid-1800s. For the next century, the region was overseen by a series of French governors. The area served as a backdrop for French battles with various opponents including Russia and Italy.

In 1958, a referendum was held in Djibouti to decide whether or not to join the Somali Republic or to remain with France. The referendum turned out in favour of a continued association with France,[3] but there were reports of vote rigging, with the French expelling thousands of Somalis before the referendum reached the polls.[4] In August 1960, an official visit to the territory by then French President, General Charles de Gaulle, was also met with demonstrations and rioting.[5][6]

On 19 March 1967, a second plebiscite was held. Similar to the 1959 referendum, voting was also divided along ethnic lines, with the resident Somalis generally voting for independence, with the goal of eventual reunion with Somalia, and the Afars largely opting to remain associated with France.[5] There were again reports of vote rigging on the part of the French authorities.[7] Announcement of the results sparked civil unrest, including several deaths. France also increased its military force along the frontier.[8][9] Soon after, the territory was renamed French Territory of the Afars and Issas, but a growing Somali and Afar population united led to a vote for independence in 1977, officially marking Djibouti's independence.[6][10]