The Republic of Upper Volta was given a new name in 1984 and became known as Burkina Faso, which means "land of the upright people" in the local language. This change was made by the country's revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara, as part of his larger effort to create a new, more democratic and equitable society in Burkina Faso. The new name was meant to symbolize a break with the colonial past and a commitment to African unity and progress. Today, Burkina Faso remains one of the poorest countries in the world, but it has also made significant strides in improving education, healthcare, and other key indicators of well-being.