Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English - independence

~ n 1 political freedom from control by the government of another country + from  (Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960. | minority groups striving for political independence) 2 the time when a country becomes politically independent  (The country has made great advances since independence.) 3 the freedom and ability to make your own decisions in life, without having to ask other people for permission, help, or money  (financial independence | I was enjoying a new feeling of independence.)