José Eduardo dos Santos

Becomes president of Angola

Assumes presidency after death of Agostinho Neto during brutal civil war. Has minimal personal wealth and limited international recognition outside African political circles.

Cuito Cuanavale battle

Major turning point in civil war leads to negotiations. Gains international attention as Cold War proxy conflict winds down, but Angola remains impoverished.

Civil war ends

27-year civil war concludes with UNITA defeat. Angola's vast oil wealth begins flowing more freely, with dos Santos family allegedly accumulating massive wealth through state control.

Oil boom enrichment peak

Angola becomes major oil producer with dos Santos family controlling key sectors. His daughter Isabel becomes Africa's richest woman, raising his international profile amid corruption allegations.

First contested election victory

Wins Angola's first multi-party election in disputed vote. Maintains power but faces growing international criticism over wealth inequality and corruption.

Steps down from presidency

Ends 38-year rule, handing power to João Lourenço. His successor launches anti-corruption campaign targeting dos Santos family, freezing assets and reducing their wealth significantly.

Dies in Barcelona

Dies in Spanish exile after years of legal battles and asset seizures. His family's wealth has been largely confiscated, and his legacy is defined by corruption rather than leadership.

Controversial legacy

Remembered as Africa's second-longest serving leader whose family looted billions from Angola. Known among those familiar with African politics and corruption, but largely forgotten by wider world.