Unearthing a Hidden History: Archaeologists Excavate Thiaroye Cemetery to Uncover WWII’s Dark Chapter
DAKAR, Senegal – A team of archaeologists is meticulously digging into a painful and often overlooked piece of history at the Thiaroye military cemetery on the outskirts of Senegal’s capital. The site, marked by fresh holes, upturned earth, and the disrupted outlines of concrete, is the focus of a mission to uncover the full truth about a tragic event involving West African soldiers who fought for France during World War II.
The excavation centers on the Thiaroye camp, which in November 1944 became the holding site for approximately 1,600 tirailleurs sénégalais—a term for soldiers recruited from France’s West African colonies. These men, who hailed from several nations including Senegal, Mali, and Burkina Faso, had been captured by German forces and were finally returning home after their liberation.
The official goal of the current archaeological work is to uncover physical evidence that can piece together the precise events that transpired at the camp. The dig aims to move beyond historical records and oral accounts to find tangible proof, preserving the memory of a chapter that remains a deep scar in the region’s colonial history.
“This excavation is not just about moving soil; it is about unearthing the truth for the families and for history itself,” said a source close to the project. “These soldiers were heroes who fought for a freedom they did not fully enjoy upon their return. We owe it to them to ensure their story is never forgotten.”
The work at Thiaroye represents a significant step in reconciling with a difficult past, seeking to honor the memory of the West African soldiers whose service and sacrifice have long been shrouded in controversy. The findings from this dig are expected to provide a clearer, more definitive account of their fate.
About The Author
