Libya gained independence from Italy on December 24, 1951, becoming the first country to do so through the United Nations. Yet many analysts argue that it only became genuinely sovereign on September 1 1969, when a group of Libyan Army officers under the leadership of Gaddafi launched a coup from Benghazi and quickly established control over the country. The coup was bloodless and received enthusiastic support from the public.
We look back at a figure who is controversial in the West but respected in many parts of the Global South, particularly in Africa. Putting aside the varying opinions, we objectively examine what Libya looked like before, during and after Nato-backed rebels toppled him in 2011. It brought to an end Gaddafi’s 42-year reign as president.