apr 7, 1994 - Rwandan Genocide

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On April 7, 1994, Hutu militias began their genocide against the Tutsi population in Rwanda after the killing of President Habyarimana. The Rwandan Liberation Front responded by launching an offensive against the Hutu extremists in an attempt to regain control of the country.Colonialism played a big role in the lead up to this conflict, as German and Belgium rule intensified ethnic divides and increased hatred among the Hutus and Tutsis.

One of the first acts of this horrific event was the assassination of Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana, a moderate Hutu. Their goal was to eliminate any competition to the rising extremist government. After that, Hutu militants went from village-to-village and killed Tutsis using guns and machetes. By April 18, most of the resisters were removed or killed, leaving the remaining Tutsis helpless. Regular Hutu civilians began taking part in the killings after government radio stations began calling for their help. Rewards for participation included food, drink, drugs, and money. The attacks became so efficient and organized that an estimated 8000 Tutsis were being killed per day.


Lemarchand, R. and Clay, . Daniel. "Rwanda." Encyclopedia Britannica, August 10, 2021. https://www.britannica.com/place/Rwanda.

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A man with a machete poses near a refugee camp in Rukumbell, Rwanda on May 5, 1994. Scott Peterson/Liaison/Getty Images
https://www.vox.com/2014/4/10/5590646/rwandan-genocide-anniversary.

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