Robert Guéï

Quick Facts: Who was Robert Guéï?

Subject:

Robert Guéï

Known for:

Ivorian politician who served as the third President of Côte d'Ivoire (1999-2000).

Born:

1941-03-16

Died:

2002-09-19

Century / Era:

1941s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Robert Guéï was born in Kabakouma, a village situated within the western Man Department of Côte d'Ivoire. He belonged to the Yacouba ethnic community and established himself as a career soldier early in his life. During the French colonial administration, he received rigorous military training at institutions such as the Ouagadougou military school and the St Cyr military school in France. Initially, he was a staunch and dedicated supporter of the long-time leader, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, a loyalty that marked his early professional trajectory.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

Guéï's political career saw a significant shift following the passing of Houphouët-Boigny in 1993, leading to a growing distance between him and the subsequent leader, Henri Konan Bédié. A pivotal moment occurred in October 1995 when his refusal to deploy his troops to mediate a political conflict between Bédié and the opposition figure Alassane Ouattara resulted in his dismissal from his high command position. Despite this setback, he continued to hold ministerial roles, building a complex political profile within the Ivorian state apparatus.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Guéï's most visible role came when he assumed the presidency of Côte d'Ivoire, serving as the third president from December 1999 until October 2000. This period followed the 1999 Ivorian coup d'état, and although he ultimately lost the ensuing 2000 presidential election to Laurent Gbagbo, his tenure remains a key chapter in the nation's turbulent history. Tragically, his life concluded on September 19, 2002, when he, along with his wife and children, was killed during the initial days of the First Ivorian Civil War.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1941 (1941-03-16): Birth of Robert Guéï — Ivorian politician who served as the third President of Côte d'Ivoire (1999-2000).
2. 1993: 1993 Milestone — Guéï's political career saw a significant shift following the passing of Houphouët-Boigny in 1993, leading to a growing distance between him and the subsequent leader, Henri Konan Bédié.
3. 1995: 1995 Milestone — A pivotal moment occurred in October 1995 when his refusal to deploy his troops to mediate a political conflict between Bédié and the opposition figure Alassane Ouattara resulted in his dismissal from his high command position.
4. 1999: 1999 Milestone — Guéï's most visible role came when he assumed the presidency of Côte d'Ivoire, serving as the third president from December 1999 until October 2000.
5. 2002 (2002-09-19): Passing & Historical Legacy — Robert Guéï passed away on 2002-09-19, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Robert Guéï

True or False: “Robert Guéï was killed on September 19, 2002, during the initial days of the First Ivorian Civil War.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): This event marks the tragic conclusion of his life and a key moment in the history of Côte d'Ivoire.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Robert Guéï