1990

1990 was a year in the Gregorian calendar that began on a Monday. It was the first year of the 1990s decade. It is remembered as a time when the Cold War ended and political systems in Eastern Europe underwent major changes.

The year saw world-changing events: the reunification of Germany, Namibian independence, and the start of the Gulf crisis following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. South Africa also underwent significant changes.

Europe and German reunification

Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989, German reunification proceeded through 1990. The German Democratic Republic (East Germany) joined the Federal Republic of Germany on 3 October 1990. That year, East Germany held its first multi-party elections.

The Gulf

In August 1990, Iraqi forces entered Kuwait. The UN Security Council passed several resolutions imposing economic sanctions and calling for military withdrawal. International efforts followed, but armed conflict over Kuwait's liberation began in early 1991.

Africa

Namibia gained independence from South African rule on 21 March 1990, with Sam Nujoma becoming its first president. That same year, South Africa lifted the ban on the ANC and released Nelson Mandela from prison in February.

Somalia and the Horn of Africa

In 1990, Somalia experienced intensifying civil conflict, with armed groups fighting against the government of Mohamed Siad Barre. Fighting in Mogadishu at the end of the year led to the government's departure from the city in early 1991.