Edward James Roye became the President of Liberia in 1869, during a tumultuous period characterized by political instability and economic challenges. His administration faced severe criticism due to allegations of corruption, as well as an inability to address pressing social and economic issues that plagued the country, including high unemployment and civil unrest. By 1871, opposition against his government had been mounting, fueled by frustrations within military ranks and political opposition groups that felt marginalized under his rule. These tensions came to a head when a faction of the military, along with civilians seeking reform, orchestrated a coup d'état to remove him from power.

On October 26, 1871, Roye was forced to flee Monrovia as his supporters were overwhelmed by the coup leaders. The coup was relatively swift and met with little resistance, indicating the lack of substantial support for Roye's presidency. Following his ouster, a new provisional government was established, which set forth to stabilize the nation and mitigate the unrest that had contributed to Roye's downfall. The swift change in leadership signified the deep divisions within Liberia's society and served as a catalyst for further political upheaval in the decades that followed, including exacerbated conflicts among various factions.

Roye’s deposition also underscored the challenges that Liberia faced as a nation founded by freed American slaves, grappling with complex pre-colonial and colonial legacies, tribal tensions, and issues of identity. Ultimately, this event became a pivotal moment in Liberia’s political evolution, as it set a precedent for future coups and governmental instability.