East Timor gained independence from Portugal.

Explanation:
East Timor, officially known as the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, gained independence from Portugal on May 20, 2002. The process of gaining independence was marked by a long and tumultuous history.

1. Portuguese Colonization:
- East Timor was colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century and remained under Portuguese rule for over four centuries. It was known as Portuguese Timor during this period.
- The Portuguese established control over the region primarily for its strategic location and as a source of valuable commodities like sandalwood and spices.

2. Indonesian Occupation:
- Following the Portuguese Revolution in 1974, Portugal decided to decolonize its territories, including East Timor. This led to a power vacuum in the region, which was exploited by neighboring Indonesia.
- In 1975, just days after East Timor declared independence from Portugal, Indonesia invaded and occupied the territory.
- The Indonesian occupation was marked by widespread human rights abuses, violence, and resistance from the East Timorese people.

3. Struggle for Independence:
- Despite the brutal Indonesian occupation, the East Timorese people never gave up their aspirations for independence.
- The resistance movement, known as the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (FRETILIN), fought against the Indonesian forces.
- The international community, including the United Nations, also supported East Timor's struggle for independence.

4. Referendum and Independence:
- In 1999, the Indonesian government allowed a referendum in East Timor to determine its future status. The options were autonomy within Indonesia or independence.
- The majority of East Timorese voted for independence, which led to a violent backlash from pro-Indonesian militias.
- The violence prompted an intervention by international peacekeeping forces, and a transitional administration was established to oversee the process of independence.
- Finally, on May 20, 2002, East Timor officially became an independent nation, ending centuries of foreign rule.

In conclusion, East Timor gained independence from Portugal after a long and challenging struggle against both Portuguese colonization and Indonesian occupation. The determination and resilience of the East Timorese people, along with international support, ultimately led to the establishment of their own sovereign nation.