August 15, 1947India gains independence after some 200 years of British rule. Jawaharlal Nehru becomes the first prime minister.

August 16, 1960Britain grants independence to the crown colony of Cyprus.

August 17, 1945Indonesian nationalists declare independence from the Netherlands. Upon hearing confirmation that Japan has surrendered, Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaim Indonesias independence.

August 18, 1991Soviet hardliners, led in part by PM V