Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe: A Complex Figure in Zimbabwean History
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Gabriel Mugabe was the full name of this influential figure. He is commonly known as Bob Mugabe.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on February 21, 1924, in Kutama, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Robert Mugabe passed away on September 6, 2019, at the age of 95.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Mugabe was a Zimbabwean politician who held various positions throughout his career. He served as Prime Minister from 1980 to 1987 and President of Zimbabwe from 1987 until his resignation in 2017.
Early Life and Background
Robert Mugabe's early life was marked by hardship and determination. Born into a Shona family, he was the third child of Gabriel and Bona Mugabe. His father was a carpenter, and his mother was a teacher. After completing his primary education at Kutama College, Mugabe attended Fort Hare University in South Africa, where he became involved in the African National Congress (ANC) movement. He later pursued higher education in Ghana and Britain.
Major Accomplishments
Mugabe's early years as a politician were shaped by his involvement with the ANC and his subsequent leadership roles within the Zimbabwean independence movement. His major accomplishments include:
Leading Zimbabwe to independence from British colonial rule in 1980
Implementing land reform policies aimed at redistributing land from white farmers to black citizens
Establishing the country's education system, prioritizing literacy and access to higher educationNotable Works or Actions
Mugabe's presidency was marked by controversy and criticism. Some notable works and actions include:
Authoring a book on his experiences as Prime Minister and President of Zimbabwe, "Our War of Liberation"
Announcing plans for the nationalization of key industries, including mining and manufacturing
Implementing policies to promote economic self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on foreign aid
Impact and Legacy
Robert Mugabe's legacy is complex and multifaceted. His commitment to Zimbabwean independence and his efforts to address issues such as land reform have had a lasting impact on the country. However, his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses have also led to widespread criticism.
Mugabe's impact on African politics extends beyond Zimbabwe's borders. He was a key figure in regional organizations such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union. His views on issues like colonialism, imperialism, and economic development have influenced generations of leaders across the continent.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Despite his controversies, Robert Mugabe remains an important figure in Zimbabwean history. His quotes, speeches, and writings continue to be widely referenced due to their insight into the complexities of African politics and the ongoing struggles for independence and self-determination.
Quotes by Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe's insights on:
Zimbabwe has lots of safaris, but very few are African. Most are white-owned. In our region, we have the most safaris and animals. Our people cannot keep suffering.
Our small and peaceful country is threatened daily by covetous and bigoted big powers whose hunger for domination and control of other nations and their resources knows no bounds.
Grooming a successor, is it an inheritance? In a democratic party, you don't want leaders appointed that way. They have to be appointed properly by the people.
I am glad that Zimbabwe and China speak the same language on many issues. We share the same conviction that only a fair, just, and non-prescriptive world order, based on the principles of the charter of the United Nations, can deliver the development we all need.
I have been given a list of 35 white farmers in Mashonaland West alone. We say no to whites owning our land, and they should go... They can own companies and apartments... but not the soil. It is ours, and that message should ring loud and clear in Britain and the United States.
I've just concluded - since President Obama endorses the same-sex marriage, advocates homosexual people, and enjoys an attractive countenance - thus if it becomes necessary, I shall travel to Washington, D.C., get down on my knee, and ask his hand.
Cooperation and respect for each other will advance the cause of human rights worldwide. Confrontation, vilification, and double standards will not.
We have this American president, Obama, born of an African father, who is saying we will not give you aid if you don't embrace homosexuality. We ask, was he born out of homosexuality? We need continuity in our race, and that comes from the woman, and no to homosexuality.