[1] Lebanese migration to Senegal began in the late 19th century, largely motivated by economic prospects in trade and commerce.

While retaining cultural ties to Lebanon and largely practicing endogamy, they've assimilated into Senegalese society, predominantly engaged in commerce.

However, early migration was slow; by 1900, there were only about one hundred Lebanese living in the country, mostly Shiite Muslims from the vicinity of Tyre.

This discrepancy highlights challenges in assessing the Lebanese community in Senegal, including differing citizenship statuses, incomplete embassy registrations, and complexities in categorizing individuals from mixed marriages.

[4] Their social position outside of the colonial relationship, as neither colonist nor colonised, enabled them to maintain good relations with both Senegalese consumers as well as the large French businessmen.