I am a specialist in international relations and political history. My expertise lies in understanding the complexities of global conflicts and the factors that lead to significant political changes such as independence movements.

South Sudan's journey to independence was a long and arduous one, deeply rooted in the history of Sudan's civil wars and the struggle for autonomy by the people in the southern region. The First Sudanese Civil War, which began in 1955 and ended in 1972, was a pivotal moment that set the stage for the eventual independence of South Sudan. The war was primarily a conflict between the predominantly Muslim and Arabic-speaking north and the predominantly Christian and English-speaking south, with the latter seeking greater autonomy due to cultural, religious, and political differences.

After the war, the Southern Sudan Autonomous Region was established in 1972. This was an attempt to address the grievances of the southern population and to create a more inclusive political system. However, this autonomy was short-lived, as it was abolished in 1983 by the Sudanese government, leading to the outbreak of the Second Sudanese Civil War. This second war lasted from 1983 to 2005 and was one of the longest-running civil wars in Africa, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 2 million people and the displacement of millions more.

The Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) was signed in 2005, which ended the Second Sudanese Civil War. The CPA included provisions for a six-year interim period of power-sharing between the north and the south, and it also stipulated that a referendum on independence for South Sudan would be held at the end of this period. This referendum was a critical step towards self-determination for the people of South Sudan.

On January 9, 2011, the referendum was held, and an overwhelming majority of 98.83% of the voters chose independence from Sudan. This was a historic moment, as it marked the end of the longest civil war in Africa and the beginning of a new chapter for the people of South Sudan.

However, the road to independence was not without challenges. The newly formed state faced numerous issues, including the establishment of governance structures, the development of a functioning economy, and the resolution of ongoing conflicts between various ethnic groups. Despite these challenges, the people of South Sudan were determined to build a nation that would be a beacon of hope and progress for its citizens.

In conclusion, South Sudan became independent due to a combination of historical grievances, a long and bloody civil war, and the determination of its people to seek self-determination and a better future. The journey was marked by immense sacrifice and struggle, but it ultimately led to the birth of the world's newest nation in 2011.

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Following the First Sudanese Civil War, the Southern Sudan Autonomous Region was formed in 1972 and lasted until 1983. ... South Sudan became an independent state on 9 July 2011, following a referendum that passed with 98.83% of the vote.read more >>