Christophe Soglo

Christophe Soglo (Known as "General Soglo")

General, President of Dahomey (1963–1964, 1965–1967), WWII and Indochina Decorated Veteran

Born 1909-06-28

Abomey, Benin

Passed Away 1983-10-07 Cotonou, Benin

Lifespan 74 years old

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"The military's only mission in politics is to restore peace so the people may decide their own fate."

Archival Overview

Distinguished military officer and President of Dahomey who intervened repeatedly in the 1960s to prevent ethnic civil war among regional political triumvirs and drafted the 1964 Constitution.

Biographical Record

Christophe Soglo was born on June 28, 1909, in Abomey into an illustrious royal lineage. Joining the French Army in 1931, Soglo served with distinction in World War II—participating in the Allied landings in southern France—and in the First Indochina War, earning the Croix de Guerre and Legion of Honour.

Appointed Chief of Staff of the newly independent Dahomeyan Army in 1961, General Soglo intervened in October 1963 during massive workers' strikes to prevent civil breakdown, stepping down voluntarily after presiding over the drafting of the 1964 Constitution. He intervened again as President from 1965 to 1967 to stabilize the economy before retiring permanently from public life.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Abomey Royal Cemetery
Abomey, Benin

                         GPS: 7.1850, 1.9900                    

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