A Look at Countries That Have Changed Names (And Why)

Over the years, many countries have undergone significant transformations, not just in governance and culture, but also in how they are called. These changes often reflect deeper shifts in identity, politics, or geography. Here’s an intriguing look at 20 countries that decided to turn the page on their history books and adopt new names, revealing fascinating stories and the reasons behind these decisions.

1. Thailand (From Siam to the Land of the Free)

In 1939, Siam officially became Thailand, a name that translates to “Land of the Free.” This change was part of a broader initiative by then-Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram to foster a sense of national identity and unity. The name Siam, believed to be derived from a Sanskrit word meaning “dark” or “brown,” was seen as not entirely representative of the nation’s culture and people. Thailand’s new name was also a nod to its status as the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized. A brief switch back to Siam occurred after World War II, but Thailand was reinstated in 1949 and has remained ever since.

2. Sri Lanka (Ceylon’s Transformation into a Resplendent Island)

Sri Lanka, known as Ceylon during its time as a British colony, adopted its current name in 1972 after gaining full independence. “Sri Lanka” translates to “resplendent island” in Sanskrit, capturing the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This change was part of a larger movement to shed colonial names and identities across many nations. The name Ceylon, which had been in use since the early 16th century, was associated with the colonial period and the exploitation of the country’s resources. The new name was a step towards reclaiming and celebrating the nation’s indigenous heritage.

3. Zimbabwe (Rhodesia’s Leap into Independence)

Zimbabwe, once known as Rhodesia, changed its name in 1980 to mark its independence from British colonial rule. The name Rhodesia was derived from Cecil Rhodes, a British imperialist whose legacy was deeply intertwined with colonial exploitation. Zimbabwe, meaning “stone houses” in the Shona language, reflects the country’s historical and cultural significance, particularly the famous Great Zimbabwe ruins. This name change was a crucial part of the nation’s effort to establish a new identity free from colonial influence. It symbolizes the country’s rich history and aspirations for the future.

4. Iran (Persia’s Modern Makeover)

In 1935, Persia officially became Iran, a name that insiders had already been using for centuries. The change was requested by the Persian government, signaling a desire to reflect the country’s Aryan heritage and to strengthen ties with other Aryan nations. “Iran” means “land of the Aryans” in Persian. While Persia conjures images of ancient empires and cultural splendor, the name Iran was seen as a way to embrace both the country’s rich history and its contemporary identity. This shift also aimed at promoting a more unified national consciousness among the diverse ethnic groups within the country.

5. Myanmar (Burma’s Name on the World Stage)

Myanmar replaced Burma as the official name of the country in 1989, a change made by the ruling military government. The government argued that “Myanmar” was more inclusive of the numerous ethnic groups within the country, whereas “Burma” predominantly referred to the Burman ethnic group. Critics, however, saw this change as an attempt by the military regime to legitimize its rule following a coup. Despite the controversy, Myanmar is the name recognized by the United Nations and many countries worldwide. The debate over the country’s name continues to reflect broader discussions about identity, colonial legacies, and political legitimacy.

6. Cambodia (From the Khmer Republic Back to Ancient Roots)

After several name changes throughout its tumultuous history, Cambodia officially reclaimed its ancient name in 1989, after being known as the Khmer Republic and then Kampuchea. “Cambodia” is the English version of “Kampuchea,” which is derived from the name of the ancient Khmer kingdom, Kambuja. The switch back to Cambodia was part of a broader effort to restore and preserve the nation’s cultural heritage after years of conflict and upheaval. This name change was symbolic of the country’s attempts to move forward while honoring its rich past. It marks a period of reconstruction and reconciliation in Cambodia’s history.

7. Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire’s Return to Its Roots)

The country known as Zaire from 1971 to 1997 reverted to its original name, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to signify a new era after the end of Mobutu Sese Seko’s dictatorship. The name Zaire, which means “the river that swallows all rivers,” was introduced to foster a sense of African identity and independence. However, the return to the Democratic Republic of the Congo was seen as a move to distance the nation from the tyranny and corruption associated with Mobutu’s regime. This name change also aligned with the country’s desire to reconnect with its history and geography, referencing the Congo River, one of the world’s longest and most powerful rivers. It was a symbolic break from the past and a step towards a hopeful future.

8. Ghana (Gold Coast’s Rich Transformation)

Ghana, once known as the Gold Coast, adopted its new name in 1957 upon gaining independence from British colonial rule. The name Ghana was chosen to reflect the ancient glory of the Ghana Empire, which was known for its wealth and trade in gold. This change was significant in establishing a distinct national identity separate from colonial associations. The name Gold Coast had been given by European traders, focusing solely on the region’s resources. By choosing Ghana, the country signaled its commitment to self-determination and its pride in African heritage.

9. Eswatini (Swaziland’s Royal Renaming)

In 2018, Swaziland officially changed its name to Eswatini, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of its independence and the King’s 50th birthday. “Eswatini” translates to “land of the Swazis” in the Swazi language and was introduced to mark a break from the country’s colonial past. The name Swaziland was derived from a British colonial administrator, and the change to Eswatini was a move to reclaim cultural identity and assert sovereignty. This renaming was not just symbolic but also a direct link to the nation’s monarchy, emphasizing the connection between the country’s leadership and its people. It reflects a broader trend of nations reevaluating and often reclaiming their pre-colonial names and identities.

10. Belarus (Byelorussia’s Break from the Past)

Belarus, previously known as Byelorussia, officially adopted its current name in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. “Belarus” means “White Rus” and is seen as more accurately reflecting the country’s sovereignty and cultural identity. The name Byelorussia, which also means “White Russia,” was associated with the country’s status as a Soviet republic. The change to Belarus was part of a wider movement to assert independence and national pride after decades of Soviet influence. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s history, one focused on forging its path on the global stage.

11. Lesotho (Basutoland’s Independence Identity)

Upon gaining independence from British rule in 1966, Basutoland was renamed Lesotho, meaning “land of the Sotho speakers.” This change was a crucial step in shaping a new national identity distinct from the colonial past. The name Basutoland had been imposed by the British in the 19th century, named after the Basotho people, but the new name, Lesotho, emphasized sovereignty and self-determination. It was a reflection of the country’s commitment to its own culture, language, and people. Lesotho’s name change is a powerful testament to the importance of names in national pride and identity.

12. Burkina Faso (Upper Volta’s Bold New Name)

In 1984, Upper Volta changed its name to Burkina Faso, which translates to “land of honest men” in the Mossi and Dioula languages. This change was initiated by then-President Thomas Sankara to shed the colonial name and reflect the values and aspirations of its people. Upper Volta was a name given by French colonizers, referring to the country’s location near the Volta River basin. Burkina Faso’s new name was a call to integrity, dignity, and national unity in the face of challenges. It symbolizes a departure from a colonial legacy toward a future built on self-reliance and ethical governance.

13. Kazakhstan (Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic’s Fresh Start)

Following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic was renamed Kazakhstan. This change represented a break from Soviet influence and a return to the country’s historical and cultural roots. “Kazakhstan” translates to “land of the wanderers,” reflecting the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people. The previous name was tied to the country’s status as a Soviet republic, which no longer applied. Choosing Kazakhstan marked a significant step in the nation’s journey towards sovereignty and the establishment of a distinct national identity.

14. Mali (French Sudan’s Historic Renaming)

At the time of its independence from France in 1960, French Sudan was renamed Mali, after the powerful ancient Mali Empire that once flourished in the region. This name change was a nod to the country’s rich historical and cultural legacy, emphasizing a proud heritage that predates colonialism. The Mali Empire was renowned for its wealth, learning, and sophistication, and adopting this name was a way to inspire national pride and unity. It also served to distance the newly independent nation from its colonial past. Mali’s renaming was part of a larger trend of African nations reclaiming their identities after gaining independence.

15. Benin (From Dahomey to a New Beginning)

In 1975, Dahomey was officially renamed Benin, reflecting the name of an ancient kingdom in the region and distancing the nation from its colonial history. The name Benin is derived from the Bight of Benin, a major water body on the west coast of Africa, and was chosen to signify unity and the start of a new era. The former name, Dahomey, was associated with the kingdom that had engaged in the slave trade, a painful part of the country’s history. This change was part of a broader movement across Africa to reclaim indigenous names and identities following periods of colonization. Benin’s renaming symbolizes a commitment to heritage and a forward-looking perspective.

16. Botswana (Bechuanaland’s Path to Autonomy)

When it gained independence from Britain in 1966, Bechuanaland was renamed Botswana, reflecting the name of the country’s majority ethnic group, the Tswana people. This change was an essential part of establishing a new national identity distinct from the colonial era. The name Bechuanaland was given by the British and was used during the country’s time as a protectorate. By choosing Botswana, the nation underscored its sovereignty and cultural pride. It marked a significant step away from a past defined by external control towards self-determination and independence.

17. Namibia (South West Africa’s Independence Name)

Namibia was known as South West Africa until its independence from South African rule in 1990. The name change was a critical component of the country’s transformation and efforts to forge a distinct national identity. “Namibia” derives from the Namib Desert, one of the world’s oldest deserts, and reflects the country’s natural heritage. The previous name was associated with colonialism and apartheid, making the change a powerful symbol of sovereignty and new beginnings. Adopting the name Namibia was a declaration of the nation’s independence and a step towards shaping its future.

18. Marshall Islands (From the Trust Territory to Sovereignty)

The Marshall Islands, once part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under U.S. administration, became fully independent in 1986. This transition was not just a change in political status but also an assertion of the islands’ identity and history. The name “Marshall Islands” honors British explorer John Marshall, who visited in the late 18th century, but the country’s decision to keep this name post-independence was rooted in a desire to maintain continuity while forging a new path forward. It highlights the blend of external influences and indigenous heritage that characterizes the nation. This name carries with it the resilience and determination of the Marshallese people in their journey towards self-determination.

19. Croatia (From Yugoslav Republic to Independent State)

Croatia declared its independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, marking the end of its status as a constituent republic of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. This significant political shift was accompanied by a reassertion of Croatian national identity, culture, and history. While the name “Croatia” itself did not change, the act of declaring independence represented a profound rebranding of the country on the global stage. It signified a return to sovereignty and the historical roots of the Croatian people that date back over a thousand years. This move was emblematic of the broader Balkan region’s complex journey towards independence and self-identification in the post-Cold War era.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance