[1] Diplomatic relations between the United States and Tanzania, initially known as Tanganyika, began shortly after the country gained independence from British rule in 1961.

The United States recognized Tanganyika on December 9, 1961, with a congratulatory message from President John F. Kennedy to Prime Minister Julius Nyerere.

The American consulate general in Dar es Salaam was elevated to an Embassy on December 9, 1961, with William R. Duggan serving as the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.

The embassy is a 22-acre compound that houses two main structures; the Chancery and the USAID Building.

For any US diplomats working there, the embassy hosts a wide variety of activities and services.