The 1987 Coup in Burkina Faso: The Death of President Thomas Sankara

Name: The 1987 Coup in Burkina Faso: The Death of President Thomas Sankara
Start: 1949-10-15
Location: Unspecified

The 1987 Coup in Burkina Faso: A Turning Point for Africa

Thomas Sankara’s Vision for Burkina Faso

President Thomas Sankara was a revolutionary leader who took office in Burkina Faso in 1983. Sankara was known for his bold reforms and policies aimed at eradicating poverty and promoting self-sufficiency. His government emphasized education, health care, and women’s rights, making a significant impact in a nation plagued by colonial legacy and economic challenges.

The Impact of Sankara's Policies

Under Sankara's leadership, the country saw a decrease in tree cutting and an increase in reforestation initiatives. His famous slogan, "He who feeds you, controls you," underpinned his policies, promoting agricultural independence which inspired numerous other nations in Africa to pursue similar paths.

The Coup of 1987: Betrayal and Fallout

The Events Leading to the Coup

On October 15, 1987, Thomas Sankara was assassinated during a coup led by his former ally, Blaise Compaoré. Tensions had been rising due to Sankara’s increasing unpopularity among some military and political factions who felt threatened by his radical reforms and anti-imperialist stance. His assassination marked a dramatic shift in the country's political landscape.

Blaise Compaoré’s Rise to Power

Following Sankara's death, Blaise Compaoré seized control and reversed many of Sankara’s policies. He established a more conservative regime that aligned itself with Western interests, ultimately ruling until 2014. The political shift prompted widespread disillusionment among the Burkinabé people, leading to decades of unrest.

Fun Fact

Thomas Sankara’s Interesting Fact

Despite his controversial end, Thomas Sankara remains a significant figure in African history, often referred to as the "Che Guevara of Africa" for his strong anti-colonial stance and revolutionary ideals.