by Elliot | Jan 5, 2024 | Lists
There is a tendency to view dictators in a specific light – a strongman who seized power through illegal means. Shadowy figures who lurk in the dark, emerging only when their country is in crisis. For many dictators this is an accurate description. But no stereotype...
by Elliot | Dec 31, 2023 | African Dictators
Jean-Bedel Bokassa is by far the most flamboyant and audacious African dictator of all. That’s saying a lot considering Colonel Gaddafi is also in that category. Like Idi Amin he was rumored to be a cannibal. But unlike even Idi he had the gall to proclaim...
by Elliot | Jul 31, 2023 | African Dictators
Siad Barre is one of the most influential figures of modern history. But there is a good chance you’ve never even heard his name. The truth is that most of us outside of east Africa know very little of Somalia. All we know is it should be avoided at all costs....
by Elliot | Jun 10, 2023 | African Dictators
Sani Abacha is notorious as the kleptocrat strongman who stole billions of dollars from Nigeria during his time in office. In power for just 5 years, so much about him remains mysterious. Much of his billions seemed to disappear in the wake of his downfall and still...
by Elliot | Jun 7, 2023 | African Dictators
Hissene Habre is not exactly well known outside of central Africa. But in his native country of Chad, just uttering the name conjures up images of horror. For eight long years he ruled over Chad in the 1980s, during which time he was responsible for the executions of...
