The Angolan Civil War, which raged from 1974 to 1990, was a complex and devastating conflict that shaped the political landscape of southern Africa. This book delves into the political history of this war, with a particular focus on the East-South relations that played a crucial role in its course and aftermath.
Chapter 1: The Roots of the Conflict
The origins of the Angolan Civil War can be traced back to the collapse of Portuguese colonial rule in 1974. Three liberation movements emerged to compete for power: the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA),the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA),and the National Front for the Liberation of Angola (FNLA).
Chapter 2: The Role of the Soviet Union and Cuba
The Soviet Union and Cuba were key allies of the MPLA, providing military and logistical support. This intervention had a significant impact on the war, as the MPLA was able to gain control of the capital, Luanda, and other major cities. The involvement of the Soviet Union and Cuba also fueled Western fears of a communist takeover in Angola.
Chapter 3: The United States and Apartheid
The United States supported UNITA and the FNLA, as part of its Cold War strategy to contain the spread of communism in Africa. The United States also tacitly supported the apartheid regime in South Africa, which provided military and economic assistance to UNITA.
Chapter 4: The Battle for Namibia
Angola's civil war was closely intertwined with the struggle for Namibian independence. South Africa occupied Namibia and supported UNITA in Free Download to maintain control over the territory. This led to fierce fighting along the Angola-Namibia bFree Download, and the Angolan government became a major supporter of the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO),the Namibian liberation movement.
Chapter 5: Peace Negotiations and the End of the War
International pressure and the changing political landscape in the late 1980s led to negotiations between the MPLA and UNITA. The United States and the Soviet Union also played a role in facilitating these talks. In 1990, a peace agreement was signed, bringing an end to the civil war.
The Angolan Civil War was a major turning point in the history of southern Africa. The East-South relations that shaped the conflict had a profound impact on the outcome of the war and the political development of the region. This book provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of this complex and often overlooked period in history.
Reviews
"A groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the Angolan Civil War and its international dimensions. Essential reading for anyone interested in African history, Cold War politics, or international relations." - Professor Richard Dale, University of London
"A meticulously researched and engagingly written account of the political history of the Angolan Civil War. Chivunga's analysis of the East-South relations is particularly insightful." - Professor Meredith McKittrick, University of Edinburgh
"A timely and important contribution to the study of the Angolan Civil War. Chivunga's work is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone seeking to understand this pivotal conflict." - Ambassador Chester Crocker, former US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs
