Angola: History

The Portuguese arrive in modern-day Angola.

Angola becomes a major Portuguese trading area for slaves, supplying Brazil and the Americas with slave labor.

Slave trade is officially abolished by the Portuguese government.

Anti-Portuguese revolts erupt at coffee plantations, resulting in 50,000 deaths. Forced labor is abolished and rebels are emboldened.

Following a coup in Portugal, Angola becomes independent. The country endures violence and civil war between political parties for the next 30 years.

Oil production in Angola reaches one million barrels per day.

Angola begins a $5 billion sovereign wealth fund to funnel the country's oil wealth into investment projects.

José Eduardo dos Santos, the president since 1979, steps down and is replaced by João Lourenço.