To what extent was nationalism the main factor in Senegal becoming independent?

Candidates will consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that nationalism was the main factor in Senegal becoming independent in 1960. Reasons may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the emergence and actions of nationalist political parties in Senegal, or they may refer to the activities and ideas of the main nationalist leaders, like Leopold Sedan Senghor. Candidates may refer to the relationship of Senegalese nationalist leaders with French colonial rule and to their participation in the French National Assembly. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, the reception of French assimilation policy by nationalist leaders and their position on the independence option that was offered in the 1958 French constitutional referendum, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question on the independence of Senegal produced some successful responses with good focus and depth of knowledge. Weaker responses lacked some content and/or failed to show enough range of issues related to the topic. Particularly on the changing position of France and French policy.