Samuel Doe

Samuel Doe was a Liberian military officer who came to power in 1980 when he led a military coup that overthrew the government of William Tolbert. He became the country's head of state and later declared himself president. Doe's rule was marked by authoritarian governance, ethnic tensions, and economic decline. His leadership ended in 1990 when he was overthrown and killed during the Liberian Civil War. His tenure significantly impacted Liberia’s political landscape, causing long-lasting instability and contributing to the country's ongoing struggles with governance and conflict.