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Samuel Doe

Samuel Kanyon Doe (May 6, 1950 - September 9, 1990) was a dictator of the African country Liberia from 1980 to late 1989.

Doe was an ethnic Krahn[?], part of a rural and deprived tribe in inland Liberia. They did not have much in common with the Americo-Liberian elite who ruled the country.

In 1980, he staged a military coup, executing the president William Tolbert[?] and taking over the country.

During his time in rule he banned newspapers and outlawed opposition political parties. He also entered into deals with the United States government, allowing them to use the country to fight against the Soviet Union.

He was disliked, even by members of his own tribe. He survived a coup attempt, and reportedly had the leader divided into pieces and eaten.

Doe was removed (Prince Johnson or Charles Taylor), and was killed.



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