1985: Nimeiri Ousted in the Sudan
General Nimeiri was ousted in the Sudan after serving as head of government since 1969. Nimeiri fought to suppress a rebellion in the non-Muslim south. He imposed Islamic law, but…
1983: Northern Chad Seized by Libyans and Rebels
Libya continued its involvement in Chad. The government requested and received aid from both the U.S. and French governments. (History Central)
1980: Libyan Troops Intervene in Chad Civil War
Civil war broke out in Chad between the forces of President Goukouni Oededdei and Prime Minister Hisseene Habre. Hundreds were killed in the initial fighting. In November, Libya intervened on…
1979: Idi Amin Overthrown
The despotic rule of Idi Amin came to an end when a joint force of Ugandan rebels and Tanzanian troops entered the Ugandan capital of Kampala. Amin fled. (History Central)
1979: Southern Rhodesia Becomes Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe: The white-controlled government, under Ian Smith, successfully held out against majority rule until 1976. At that point, the South Africans decided to withhold further military aid. The white government…
1979: Somalia invaded Ethiopia
On August 8th, Somalia invaded Ethiopia, the latest chapter in the ongoing dispute over the Ogaden. The Somalis were initially successful in their attack, but the Soviets-- initially patrons of…