In September 1979, the political landscape of the Central African Empire underwent a significant transformation as a coup d'état led to the ousting of Emperor Jean-Bedel Bokassa. Bokassa, who declared himself emperor in 1976 in a lavish coronation ceremony, ruled with an iron fist, characterized by rampant human rights violations, economic mismanagement, and extravagant expenditures that strained the already fragile economy. His regime faced increasing discontent among the populace, attributed to his authoritarian rule and the perception of his extravagant lifestyle amidst widespread poverty.

The historical backdrop to this coup included Bokassa's establishment of a one-party state and his alignment with various political factions, often leading to tensions both internally and externally. By the late 1970s, international scrutiny of his regime intensified due to accusations of human rights abuses, notably against political opponents and students. Amidst this growing chaos, former president David Dacko, who had been ousted by Bokassa in a previous coup in 1965, found support from the French government eager to restore stability and protect its interests in the region.

On September 20, 1979, with French military support, Dacko's forces took control of Bangui, the nation's capital, and effectively ended Bokassa's reign. French troops, deploying paratroopers, played a crucial role in the swift success of the coup, illustrating France's continued influence in former colonial territories. Dacko's reinstatement marked the return to a more conventional governance style, though the impact of Bokassa's rule lingered in the political and social fabric of Central Africa.