1969

1969 was a year of the twentieth century, falling within the period of the Cold War (a political and military rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union). That year is remembered for technological advances, political changes, and social movements that took place in many countries.

For Somalia, 1969 was a significant year in the country's history: parliamentary elections took place, followed by the assassination of President Abdirashid Ali Shermarke, after which the military seized state power, ending the period of civilian government that had lasted from 1960 to 1969.

Somalia in 1969

In October 1969, President Abdirashid Ali Shermarke was killed while travelling within the country. A few days later, the armed forces took power, and the parliament and constitution were suspended. A Supreme Council of the Revolution was established. Mohamed Siad Barre became head of the new government, remaining in power until 1991.

Before that transition, the 1969 parliamentary elections had revealed divisions among numerous political parties and disputes over electoral procedures. These matters were cited as justification for the transfer of power.

Global events

In July 1969, the American Apollo 11 mission put the first humans on the moon; Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed, while Michael Collins remained orbiting the moon. That same year saw the first use of ARPANET, the predecessor network to the Internet. The Vietnam War continued, and protests against the war took place in many countries.

Northern Ireland saw the beginning of a security crisis that would last for a long time. In Libya, a military coup in September 1969 brought Muammar Gaddafi to power. In Italy, France, and other countries, there were worker and student movements.