Somalia gained independence in 1960 after British and Italian rule. Siad Barre took power in 1969 and established a socialist dictatorship, seeking to end tribalism and promote nationalism. However, his oppressive rule led to a civil war in the late 1980s. Since the overthrow of Barre in 1991, Somalia has experienced statelessness and conflict, though some peace has prevailed more recently in certain areas. Islam has provided a unifying force for Somali identity and nationalism in the absence of a strong central government.