Publisher's Synopsis
"The Rise of a Dictator" chronicles the enigmatic ascent of Idi Amin, from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most notorious dictators of the 20th century. This comprehensive account delves deep into the social, political, and historical backdrop of Uganda, providing a framework to understand the environment that facilitated Amin's rise to power.
Key elements of the book include:
Early Life: Exploring Amin's formative years, his family background, and the early influences that shaped his character.
Military Beginnings: Detailing his initiation into the King's African Rifles, his experiences during World War II, and the initial steps of his military career.
Climbing the Ladder: Unpacking Amin's calculated maneuvers within the Ugandan military, showcasing his strategic alliances, betrayals, and ruthless elimination of rivals.
Coup and Consolidation: An in-depth analysis of the 1971 coup that saw Amin seize power and the subsequent methods he used to solidify his rule.
Reign of Terror: A stark account of the human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, and purges that characterized Amin's regime, with estimates suggesting hundreds of thousands lost their lives.
International Relations: Examining Amin's tumultuous relationship with foreign nations, including his expulsion of Asians from Uganda and the controversial raid on Entebbe airport.
Downfall and Exile: Tracing the events that led to the collapse of his dictatorship and his eventual exile to Saudi Arabia.
Legacy and Impact: Reflecting on the long-term consequences of Amin's rule on Uganda and assessing his place in the annals of world history.
Through meticulous research, "The Rise of a Dictator" offers a balanced yet unflinching portrayal of Idi Amin's life and rule. It serves as both a biography of a man and a study of the broader historical and political contexts that allowed for the emergence of one of modern history's most brutal dictators.
