Understanding “We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families” by Philip Gourevitch: A SparkNotes Guide
If you’re someone who is interested in modern history and wants to learn about the Rwandan Genocide, Philip Gourevitch’s “We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families” is a must-read. The book covers the prelude, preparation, and the aftermath of the 1994 genocide that resulted in the deaths of around 1 million people in just 100 days. In this article, we will provide a SparkNotes guide to help you understand the book in a better way.
The Rwanda Genocide: Prelude
The book highlights the prelude to the genocide, including the history of Rwanda, the sociopolitical and economic conditions that led to the events of 1994. For a better understanding of the context, it’s important to note that Rwanda was colonized by the Germans in the early 20th century, followed by the Belgians, who established the colonial rule in Rwanda. The book also discusses how the colonial policies resulted in a divide-and-rule strategy, creating tensions between the two major ethnic groups – the Hutus and Tutsis.
It highlights the 1959 massacre of Tutsi people and the 1990 civil war that started when Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) invaded Rwanda. Gourevitch’s investigation reveals how the events that took place in 1990s were the result of these historical tensions that had been boiling under the surface for a long time.
The Preparation for Genocide
In this section of the book, Gourevitch discusses the gradual build-up of resentment and hate towards Tutsis, orchestrated by the political leaders and the media. He also examines the tactics and strategies used by the Hutu government to carry out the genocide, such as arming civilians, creating militias, and promoting hate propaganda. The book investigates how, once the genocide began, it quickly spread, and the violence achieved an unprecedented scale and speed.
The Aftermath of Genocide
The book concludes by examining the aftermath of the genocide. It discusses how the international community failed to step in and stop the violence, and how the Rwandan Patriotic Front led by Paul Kagame took over the government. Gourevitch also interviews survivors of the genocide, including some who lost their entire families. He sheds light on how the genocide affected not just the people involved but the world at large, and how it is still a complex and sensitive issue even today.
Key Takeaways
In summary, “We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families” by Philip Gourevitch is an insightful book that offers a detailed analysis of the Rwandan genocide. It provides historical context, explores how the genocide was planned, carried out, and its aftermath. The book highlights the importance of understanding how historical context, propaganda, and divisive politics can lead to horrendous acts of violence. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in understanding one of the darkest chapters in modern African history.
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