1980 Liberian coup d'état

1980 Liberian coup d'état

Samuel Doe.jpg Samuel Doe, leader of the coup

The 1980 Liberian coup d'état was a significant political event in the history of Liberia, marking the end of over a century of rule by the Americo-Liberian elite. On April 12, 1980, a group of non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia led by Master Sergeant Samuel Doe staged a violent coup, overthrowing the government of President William R. Tolbert Jr.

Background

Liberia, founded by freed American slaves in the 19th century, was governed by the Americo-Liberian minority, who dominated the political and economic landscape. By the late 1970s, the country was experiencing significant social and economic challenges, including widespread poverty, corruption, and political repression. President William R. Tolbert Jr., who had been in power since 1971, faced increasing opposition from various groups, including indigenous Liberians who were marginalized by the ruling elite.

The Coup

In the early hours of April 12, 1980, Samuel Doe and a group of 17 soldiers stormed the Executive Mansion in Monrovia, killing President Tolbert and seizing control of the government. The coup was swift and brutal, with Tolbert's bodyguards and several government officials also being killed. Following the coup, Doe declared himself the head of state and established the People's Redemption Council (PRC) to govern the country.

Aftermath

The coup was initially welcomed by many Liberians who saw it as a liberation from Americo-Liberian dominance. However, Doe's regime soon became known for its own human rights abuses, corruption, and authoritarian rule. The execution of 13 former government officials by firing squad on April 22, 1980, was a particularly notorious event that drew international condemnation.

Doe's rule lasted until 1990, when he was overthrown and killed during the First Liberian Civil War. The coup and its aftermath set the stage for decades of instability and conflict in Liberia.

Impact

The 1980 coup d'état had profound implications for Liberia. It ended the long-standing dominance of the Americo-Liberian elite and brought indigenous Liberians to power. However, it also led to a period of political instability and civil war that devastated the country. The coup is often seen as a turning point in Liberian history, marking the beginning of a tumultuous era.

Also see

• First Liberian Civil War
• Samuel Doe
• William R. Tolbert Jr.
• Americo-Liberian
• People's Redemption Council