![]() |
Maxamed Siyaad BarreSomali statesman and military leader, President of Somalia
Country:
![]() |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Rise to Power
- Somali Democratic Republic
- Economic Developments
- Regional Conflict and Opposition
- Fall from Power and Legacy
Early Life and Military Career
Muhammad Siad Barre(born c. 1919) was a Somali military and political leader who served as President of Somalia from 1969 to 1991. Born into poverty in Shilabo, he joined the police in 1940 and rose through the ranks. In 1950, he studied at a military academy in Italy and returned to Somalia to continue his military service.
Rise to Power
After Somalia gained independence in 1960, Barre became Chief of Staff. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 1962 and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces in 1965. In 1969, a military coup led by Barre deposed President Abdirashid Ali Shermarke. Barre became President and established a Supreme Revolutionary Council that dissolved all political parties and organizations.
Somali Democratic Republic
Barre declared Somalia a socialist state, nationalizing land, industries, and banks. He pursued a policy of "scientific socialism" based on Marxian principles, his own concept of community development, and Islam. Despite nationalization, private ownership of land and agriculture remained widespread.
Economic Developments
With international aid, Barre's government modernized the fishing industry. However, co-operatives were poorly managed and underfunded. In 1973, a law on cooperative development promoted agricultural development. The government invested in education and healthcare. Barre claimed significant economic progress in the first five years of the revolution.
Regional Conflict and Opposition
Regional clans were excluded from central government under Barre, leading to armed conflict. The government received Soviet support against the opposition. The conflict escalated, causing widespread displacement and human rights abuses.
Fall from Power and Legacy
Barre's regime became increasingly authoritarian and corrupt. In 1991, the Somali Civil War broke out, leading to Barre's overthrow and the collapse of the Somali state. His legacy is complex, marked by economic development and social progress, but also by tyranny, clan conflict, and human suffering.