Operation Caban facts for kids

Quick facts for kids 1979 Central African coup d'état
Date 21 September 1979 Location Central African Empire Result Coup attempt succeeds. Bokassa I is exiled. The Central African Republic is restored.
Belligerents
House of Bokassa Armed Forces loyalists	Armed Forces rebels France
Commanders and leaders
Bokassa I	David Dacko Valéry Giscard d'Estaing

Operation Caban was a secret military mission that took place in September 1979. Its main goal was to remove Emperor Bokassa I from power. The operation also aimed to bring back former president David Dacko. It successfully changed the country back from the Central African Empire to the Central African Republic.

What Was Operation Caban?

Operation Caban was a quick and secret military action. It happened on September 21, 1979, in the Central African Empire. The mission was led by France, working with local forces. Their goal was to change the country's leadership.

The operation wanted to end the rule of Emperor Bokassa I. He had taken power in 1966. Bokassa had declared himself emperor in 1976. This changed the country's name to the Central African Empire.

Why Did Operation Caban Happen?

France had supported Bokassa for many years. However, his rule became very unpopular. There were reports of harsh treatment of citizens. This caused international concern.

France decided it was time for a change. They wanted to restore stability to the region. They also wanted to protect their interests in the country. Removing Bokassa was seen as the best way to do this.

How Did the Operation Work?

The plan involved bringing back David Dacko. Dacko was the country's first president. Bokassa had overthrown him in 1966. Dacko was living in exile at the time.

French paratroopers played a key role. They flew into the capital city, Bangui. The operation was carried out quickly and with little fighting. Bokassa was out of the country when it happened.

The Return of David Dacko

David Dacko returned to the Central African Republic. He was immediately put back in charge. This marked the end of the Central African Empire. The country became the Central African Republic once more.

What Was the Result?

Operation Caban was a success for France and David Dacko.

• Emperor Bokassa I was removed from power. He went into exile.
• The Central African Republic was restored.
• David Dacko became president again.

This event marked a major shift in the country's history. It showed France's influence in the region. The operation achieved its goals quickly and effectively.