The document provides background on the ethnic groups and colonial history of Rwanda. It describes how the Hutus and Tutsis generally lived peacefully until European colonization, when the Belgians took control and favored the minority Tutsis, exacerbating ethnic tensions. After independence, the majority Hutus took power and persecuted Tutsis, causing many to flee to neighboring countries. This led to a civil war and UN peacekeeping efforts. However, extremist Hutus were unhappy with power sharing and assassinated the president, triggering a genocide where Hutus began killing Tutsis.

1. Rwanda A Story of Genocide

2. Background Small African nation Two ethnic groups lived in Rwanda: Hutus and Tutsis Generally lived peacefully until the Europeans came

3. Background Hutus Majority - 80% Migrated from southern Africa General found themselves as laborers and farmers

4. Background Tutsis Minority - 20% Migrated from Northern Africa (Egypt) General found themselves as the elite and political rulers

5. Background German colony until 1918 (end of WWI) Belgium took it over Put Tutsis in charge Handed out “ethnic identity cards” Education only open to Tutsis Hutus could only be laborers or low level workers

6. Independence Once Belgium granted independence, Hutu majority took control Persecuted the Tutsis, many fled to neighboring countries

7. Civil War Tutsis rebel group formed in neighboring countries and invaded Rwanda Hutu president compromises with Tutsis and agrees to share power 2500 United Nations troops sent to Rwanda to help keep peace

8. Assassination Unhappy with power sharing agreement, Hutu extremists start planning genocide On April 6, 1995, Rwandan President is assassinated Hutu extremists begin killing Tutsis