1977

1977 was a year in the Gregorian calendar, the dating system used by most of the world. It was an ordinary year with 365 days, not a leap year. It fell within the 1970s decade.

For Somalia, 1977 is remembered as the beginning of the Ogaden War, fought between Somalia and Ethiopia. The war started in the latter part of the year and continued into 1978.

Global conditions

1977 occurred during the Cold War (the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union). In January, Jimmy Carter became president of the United States. Soviet relations with East African governments underwent change that year, affecting military alignments in the region.

East Africa

Ethiopia was ruled by the Derg, a military committee that had seized power in 1974, with Mengistu Haile Mariam consolidating leadership. Somalia, by contrast, was led by Mohamed Siad Barre. The shift in alliances that year became the basis for the armed conflict over the Ogaden.

Science and technology

1977 is noted for advances in personal computing and the film industry. The film Star Wars was released that year and had a major impact on cinema.