Historical Events tagged with "bokassa"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Jean-Bédel Bokassa Sentenced to Death

June 12th, 1987 37 years ago

Jean-Bédel Bokassa, who proclaimed himself emperor of the Central African Republic, was sentenced to death following a trial that highlighted numerous crimes, including murder and embezzlement, committed during his authoritarian regime. The sentence came after a public trial that garnered international attention, as Bokassa's extravagant self-coronation in 1977 had drawn global scrutiny. The trial took place in Bangui, where evidence of his misrule was presented. Bokassa's conviction signified a shift in the nation's governance, aiming to restore justice and democracy.

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Politics & Government

Bokassa I Overthrown by French-backed Coup

September 20th, 1979 45 years ago

A coup d'état supported by France overthrew Emperor Jean-Bedel Bokassa of the Central African Empire. The coup was executed by David Dacko, a former president who had been ousted by Bokassa in a 1965 coup. On September 20, security forces loyal to Dacko, with assistance from French paratroopers, took control of the capital, Bangui, effectively ending Bokassa's controversial regime, which included allegations of human rights abuses and extravagant spending. The French involvement was primarily motivated by their interests in maintaining influence in Central Africa.

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Politics & Government

Bokassa Becomes Emperor of Central African Empire

December 4th, 1977 47 years ago

Jean-Bédel Bokassa crowned himself Emperor Bokassa I, transforming the Central African Republic into the Central African Empire. The lavish ceremony, held in the capital Bangui, was marked by extravagant displays and an expensive spectacle, reflecting Bokassa's ambition for grandeur and authority, as well as his desire to modernize the nation despite widespread poverty. The coronation was attended by foreign dignitaries and featured military parades, underscoring the ruler's aspirations.

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