Idi Amin

Date of Birth: May 17, 1925

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: August 16, 2003

Biography

Idi Amin Dada was born on May 17, 1925, in Koboko, in the West Nile Province of what was then the British Protectorate of Uganda. He rose through the ranks of the British colonial army, the King’s African Rifles, to become a lieutenant, a rare achievement for an indigenous African at the time. After Uganda gained independence in 1962, Amin quickly climbed the military ladder, eventually becoming the Chief of the Army and Air Force. In January 1971, Amin seized power in a military coup, overthrowing President Milton Obote. His regime, which lasted until 1979, was characterized by widespread human rights abuses, political repression, ethnic persecution, and extrajudicial killings. It is estimated that up to 300,000 people were killed during his rule. Amin’s erratic behavior and brutal methods garnered international condemnation, and he was eventually ousted by Tanzanian forces and Ugandan exiles. He spent the remainder of his life in exile, primarily in Saudi Arabia, where he died on August 16, 2003.

5 Interesting Facts about Idi Amin

1. Idi Amin was a champion swimmer and boxer in his younger days.

2. He declared himself “President for Life” and gave himself numerous grandiose titles, including “Conqueror of the British Empire.”

3. Amin expelled the entire Asian population of Uganda in 1972, which numbered around 60,000 people, most of whom were of Indian descent.

4. He was known for his bizarre behavior, including sending a congratulatory telegram to Queen Elizabeth II after the United Kingdom lost a football match.

5. Despite his brutal regime, Amin had a surprisingly affable and charismatic public persona, which he used to manipulate both domestic and international opinion.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Idi Amin

1. “In any country there must be people who have to die. They are the sacrifices any nation has to make to achieve law and order.”

2. “I am the hero of Africa.”

3. “Sometimes people mistake the way I talk for what I am thinking.”

4. “I am not a politician but a professional soldier. I am, therefore, a man of few words and I have been brief through my professional career.”

5. “It’s not for me. I have my own way. I am Idi Amin.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his power, Idi Amin’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million, largely amassed through corruption and the expropriation of businesses and properties.

Children

Idi Amin had an estimated 30 to 45 children from multiple wives. Some of his more well-known children include Taban Amin, who has been involved in Ugandan politics, and Jaffar Amin, who has spoken publicly about his father’s legacy.