Decolonization Violence in Angola and Mozambique: An Analysis
When discussing the decolonization processes of Angola and Mozambique, the latter often seems to attract less attention, despite both experiencing highly violent phases. The perception that Angola's decolonization was more violent than Mozambique's has led to widespread misconceptions. This article will explore the reasons behind these differing narratives and provide a comprehensive analysis of the violence experienced by both nations.
The Decolonization Context in Angola and Mozambique
Both Angola and Mozambique struggled for independence during the 1960s from Portuguese colonial rule. Their paths towards independence were marked by intense violence, with both nations experiencing similar levels of casualties and atrocities. The push against European colonizers was initially a united front, but infighting emerged as the coalition broke down, leading to a power struggle. These struggles were almost entirely contained within the belligerents, with some neighboring countries providing support for the rebel troops.
War Efforts and Military Deployment
The independence wars in both countries were significant and involved substantial military deployments. Angola had between 30,000 to 90,000 active rebel fighters, while Mozambique had 20,000 to 30,000. The Portuguese military deployment was comparable, with 65,000 soldiers in Angola and 51,000 in Mozambique. The estimated casualties in these conflicts were remarkably similar, with approximately 10,000 fatalities on each side as rebels and Portuguese soldiers. Civilian casualties also totaled around 50,000 in both countries, which were similar in population size.
The Fall of the Estado Novo and Independence
The Estado Novo regime in Portugal collapsed in 1974, leading to a ceasefire and the countries gaining independence in 1975. However, this period of calm was short-lived, as both countries soon descended into civil wars. This immediate onset of civil conflict adds a vital layer to the narrative of decolonization, indicating that the process was far from complete.
Role of Foreign Powers in the Civil Wars
After independence, both Angola and Mozambique faced significant foreign interference. In Angola, the communist MPLA was supported by the Soviets and Namibia, though with a small contingent of troops and advisors. Other resistance movements, especially UNITA, were supported largely by South Africa, which committed a large force in 1976. However, this military commitment was unsustainable, and South Africa withdrew shortly thereafter. The Cubans, who were convinced by the Soviets, sent troops in about 1979, which accounted for about half of the frontline soldiers during their time in Angola.
Mozambique also experienced interference from surrounding nations. Rhodesia supported anti-communist rebels, while Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Malawi sent significant troop contingents to support the communist FRELIMO. These external influences significantly impacted the violence and scale of the civil wars.
Casualties and Civilian Suffering
The exact numbers of military casualties in these conflicts are unknown, but Cuban losses suggest that tens of thousands were killed. As in most civil wars, civilians suffered the most, and every side committed war crimes. The Angolan civil war lasted for 26 years, while the Mozambican civil war lasted for 15 years, with longer ceasefire breaks in the former. Both conflicts resulted in the displacement of around 5 million people, or approximately a third of the population. However, civilian deaths in Mozambique are estimated to be around a million, while in Angola, the figures are closer to 500,000. This difference can be attributed to the greater use of landmines in Mozambique and the exacerbation of famine, both caused and exacerbated by the actions of both sides.
Conclusion
While the fight against the Portuguese was equally violent in both Angola and Mozambique, the subsequent civil wars reveal differing levels of violence. Mozambique arguably experienced even greater violence, particularly due to the extensive use of landmines and the exacerbation of famine. It is crucial to understand that the decolonization process in these nations was marked by both liberation and subsequent strife, with foreign interference playing a significant role in the intensity of the violence.