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Belgian forces occupy Rwanda
On an unknown date in 1916, Belgium takes control of Rwanda which would be the start of a very long reign. Promote Tutsies to have control over Hutus. -
Belgium introduce identity cards
On an unknown date in 1935, Belgium introduces indentity cards to differentiate from the Tutsies and the Hutus. This would play a key role in indentifying Tutsies during the genocide. -
President Habyarimana ends Rwanda civil war
On an unknown date in 1993, President Habyarimana signs a power-sharing agreement with the Tutsis in the Tanzanian town of Arusha, ostensibly signalling the end of civil war. -
President Habyarimana is assassinated
On April 6, 1994, President Habyarimana's plane is shot down during a cease fire. Nobody knows who shot down the plane. This serves as a catalyst for the genocide. -
Genocide starts
The genocide starts only hours after President Habyarimana's plane is shot down. Hutus start to slaughter the Tutsies over their ethnic beliefs. Tutsies are identified by their identity cards given to them by the Belgians. -
Massacre at Gikondo
Hundreds of Tutsis are killed in the Pallottine Missionary Catholic Church. Since the killers were clearly targeting only Tutsi, the Gikondo massacre was the first clear sign that a genocide was occurring. -
Tutsies flee
On April 28, 1994, approximately 250,000 people, mostly Tutsi, flee to neighboring Tanzania. -
RPF take over
On, he Rwandan Patriotic Front takes control of the presidential palace. This is a key event towards ending the genocide. -
French establish safe zone
On July 5, 1994, the French establish a safe zone in the southwest corner of Rwanda. This is essential to any Rwandan refugees. -
Genocide ends
In mid July, 1994, the genocide ends when the RPF take control of the country. Around 800000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed during the genocide.