Jonas Savimbi

Jonas Malheiro Savimbi (August 3, 1934–February 22, 2002) was a rebel leader in Angola who founded the UNITA movement in 1966, and ultimately proved a central figure in 20th century Cold War politics.

Related Topics:
August 3 - 1934 - February 22 - 2002 - Angola - UNITA - 1966 - Cold War

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With support from the United States government, the apartheid government in South Africa, and African leaders such as Félix Houphouët-Boigny of Côte d'Ivoire, Mobutu Sese Seko of Zaire, and Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia, Savimbi spent much of his life battling Angola's Marxist, Soviet-aligned government, which was supported by weapons and military advisors from the Soviet Union and Cuba. Savimbi remains an extremely important figure in Angolan history, viewed by some as a "freedom fighter," but by others as a war-monger who perpetuated a lengthy Cold War conflict.

Related Topics:
United States - Apartheid - South Africa - African - Félix Houphouët-Boigny - Côte d'Ivoire - Mobutu Sese Seko - Zaire - Kenneth Kaunda - Zambia - Marxist - Soviet - Cuba

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