Africa · Modern Era

Who was Idi Amin?

A Ugandan military officer and dictator who served as the third president of Uganda from 1971 until his overthrow in 1979.

Idi Amin (c. 1925–2003) is remembered as a key figure from Uganda, known for their role: Dictator of Uganda.

Country / regionUganda · Africa
Known forDictator of Uganda
Yearsc. 1925–2003
BornKoboko, Uganda
DiedJeddah, Saudi Arabia

Why is Idi Amin important?

Idi Amin stands out in history for a specific reason: Gained power in Uganda following the 1971 coup d'état. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Gained power in Uganda following the 1971 coup d'état
  • Served as the third president of Uganda from 1971 to 1979
  • Was removed from power in 1979 amid international and internal pressure
  • His rule is extensively documented by human rights organizations and historians

A fast fact

International human rights groups estimate that between 100,000 and 500,000 people were killed under Amin's regime.

Legacy

Idi Amin's rule is remembered as one of the most repressive periods in Ugandan history, with documented human rights abuses studied extensively by historians.

Ugandamodern historydictatorsAfrica

What is Idi Amin best known for?

A Ugandan military officer and dictator who served as the third president of Uganda from 1971 until his overthrow in 1979.

When and where did Idi Amin live?

Idi Amin was born in Koboko, Uganda (c. 1925–2003) and died in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

What is Idi Amin's lasting legacy?

Idi Amin's rule is remembered as one of the most repressive periods in Ugandan history, with documented human rights abuses studied extensively by historians.

How can I learn more about Idi Amin?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.