During the Second World War, soldiers from Africa were recruited by colonial powers to fight far from their homelands. They took part in battles in Europe and North Africa.
They were often called Senegalese Tirailleurs, even though they came from various regions of West and Central Africa. They fought in extremely difficult conditions, often far away from their families and countries.
On 8 May 1945, when the war ended in Europe, these soldiers were among the forces that contributed to the victory over Nazi Germany.
After the war, their role was long under-recognized. Many waited years before their service was fully acknowledged and respected.
Today, their memory is increasingly highlighted, and their courage is honored in historical commemorations.
