What happens when an orphan from French Equatorial Africa rises to power and takes over the Central African Republic in a coup? Discover the intriguing story of Jean-Bédel Bokassa, whose admiration for a French grammar book shaped his identity and led him to establish an Empire, all while seeking financial support from the very colonizers responsible for the brutalities of his homeland. But was he a savior or a monster?
Join us as we unravel the chilling horrors of Bokassa's reign, including rumors of cannibalism, the murder of army officers, and his alleged involvement in the killing of school children. How can we reconcile these atrocities with the humanitarian image he tried to present? And what role did foreign powers, such as France and China, play in supporting and catering to his brutal regime?
Finally, we delve into the Central African Republic's troubled history and its ongoing challenges, such as widespread poverty, violent attacks against civilians, and the mysterious presence of the Wagner Group. Learn how Bokassa sought to distance himself from France while turning to China for assistance, and how his actions continue to impact the region today. Don't miss this captivating exploration of a powerful and complex figure, and the nation he once ruled.
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