Short Answer
The Rwandan genocide, occurring from April to July 1994, targeted the Tutsi population and resulted in approximately 500,000 to 1,000,000 deaths, marking a brutal campaign of violence orchestrated by the Hutu government. It ended when the Rwandan Patriotic Front seized power, leaving lasting scars and highlighting the need for discussions on preventing future atrocities.
Understanding the Rwandan Genocide
The Rwandan genocide primarily targeted the Tutsi population, orchestrated by the Hutu-dominated government. This tragic event occurred over a brutal 100-day period from April 7 to mid-July in 1994. It serves as a stark reminder of humanity’s capacity for violence, even after the world witnessed the horrors of the Holocaust.
The Scale of the Atrocities
During this genocide, it is estimated that between 500,000 and 1,000,000 Rwandans lost their lives. The campaign resulted in the deaths of approximately 70% of the Tutsi population. This mass slaughter was characterized by extreme brutality and was often carried out with the complicity of local authorities.
The Aftermath and Resolution
The violence ended when the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), led by Paul Kagame, seized control of the country. This military response effectively halted the killings, but the aftermath left deep scars in Rwandan society. The genocide’s legacy urges ongoing discussions about prevention strategies to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.