Bokassa, Jean-Bédel (1921–1996)
Central African Republic president 1966–79 and self-proclaimed emperor 1977–79. Commander-in-chief from 1963, in December 1965 he led the military coup that gave him the presidency. On 4 December 1976 he proclaimed the Central African Empire and one year later crowned himself emperor for life.
His regime was characterized by arbitrary state violence and cruelty. Overthrown in 1979, Bokassa was in exile in the Côte d'Ivoire until 1986. Upon his return he was sentenced to death, but this was commuted to life imprisonment in 1988.
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|
?Sign in  |
|---|