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Today in History: Jerry Rawlings seizes power in Ghana's coup

6/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On June 4, 1979, Jerry John Rawlings seized power in Ghana as chairman of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC). This military junta governed the country until September 24, 1979. Rawlings later transitioned to a democratically elected president, becoming Ghana's longest-serving leader, with a total of 19 years in power.

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Story summary

On June 4, 1979, Jerry John Rawlings seized power in Ghana as chairman of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC). This military junta governed the country until September 24, 1979. Rawlings later transitioned to a democratically elected president, becoming Ghana's longest-serving leader, with a total of 19 years in power.