Africa/Eastern Africa
Rwanda
Kigali
14.1 Mio
26 338 km²
Rwandan franc
Landlocked
English, French, Kinyarwanda
Historical Events
1897 - German Colonization of Rwanda
Germany colonized Rwanda, integrating it into German East Africa.
1916 - Belgian Control Established
Belgium took control of Rwanda during World War I, continuing colonial rule.
1959 - Hutu Revolt
The Hutu population revolted, leading to the massacre of Tutsi and rise of Hutu dominance.
1962 - Rwanda's Independence
Rwanda gained independence, establishing a Hutu-dominated republic under President Kayibanda.
1973 - Military Coup
Juvénal Habyarimana overthrew President Kayibanda, continuing the pro-Hutu policies.
1990 - Start of Civil War
The Rwandan Patriotic Front launched a civil war against the Habyarimana government.
1994 - Rwandan Genocide
Genocide against the Tutsi by Hutu extremists resulted in massive violence and deaths.
1994 - RPF Victory Ends Genocide
The Rwandan Patriotic Front ended the genocide with a military victory in July.
2000 - Paul Kagame Becomes President
Paul Kagame became president, leading Rwanda under a de facto one-party state.