Explores the early colonial and post-colonial history of French Equatorial Africa, with a particular emphasis on the role of the Central African Republic in the Second World War and the Free French Movement, and traces the ascent of Jean-Bédel Bokassa from his humble beginnings to this position as one of the region's most notorious dictators. -- From the publisher.

Co-published by Helion and 30° South Publishers in 2011.

Oubangui-Chari -- The birth of a tyrant -- Operation Barracuda -- The French military in Africa -- The French take over the Republic -- Democracy and mutiny -- International intervention -- The Bozize coup -- Operation Boali -- EUFOR Chad / CAR -- Conclusion -- Appendix 1: Central African Republic: MINURCA mandate -- Appendix 2: Military agreements between France and African countries -- Appendix 3: French interventions in Africa.