This Happened - April 7: Rwandan Genocide Begins
The Rwanda genocide started on this day in 1994, and lasted for approximately 100 days until mid-July 1994.
Get This Happened straight to your inbox ✉️ each day! Sign up here.
What was the Rwandan genocide?
The Rwandan genocide was a mass slaughter of Tutsi and moderate Hutu civilians in Rwanda that occurred over a period of 100 days. The genocide was caused by a combination of political, economic, and social factors, including ethnic tensions, economic inequalities, and political competition.
Who was responsible for the Rwandan genocide?
The Rwandan genocide was primarily carried out by extremist Hutu militia groups, with the support of the Rwandan government and military.
How many people were killed in the Rwandan genocide?
It is estimated that between 800,000 and 1 million people were killed in the Rwandan genocide, which amounted to about 20% of the country's population at the time.
What was the international response to the Rwandan genocide?
The international response to the Rwandan genocide was slow and ineffective, with many countries and organizations failing to intervene to stop the violence. The United Nations peacekeeping force in Rwanda was underfunded and understaffed, and the international community did not provide sufficient aid to the victims.
What was the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide?
The aftermath of the Rwandan genocide was marked by the prosecution of those responsible for the violence, efforts to reconcile the country's different ethnic groups, and the rebuilding of the country's infrastructure and economy. The genocide had a profound impact on Rwanda and the international community.
