A Thousand Hills: Rwandas Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed It

A Thousand Hills: Rwanda's Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed It

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We learn about how he built his secret rebel army, his rebellion and ambitions for Rwanda. The author gives a good analysis of Kagame but also reports on his authoritarian excesses and violent and repressive techniques used to stay in power. This is a narration of a country with a guided democracy and state led growth and development and a central figure of a man who led it. He is pushing the country for them to rise out of poverty and be responsible people.

This was a very worthwhile read to learn about this period of time and about the people from this small African nation and what they went through and their climb out of poverty. Jun 12, Katelyn Beaty rated it really liked it Shelves: A highly readable and engaging account of Rwanda's political turmoil and improbable success in the past 50 years, with extensive quotes from Paul Kagame serving to frame the historical account. May 02, Andrew rated it really liked it Shelves: Kagame's family fled Rwanda in the late '60's after an outbreak of violence directed at the Tutsi community in Rwanda, which led to the overthrow of the Tutsi monarchy and the installation of a Hutu political system.

Kagame grew up in Uganda, attending school there and eventually fighting with Musevini's forces a A Thousand Hills: Kagame grew up in Uganda, attending school there and eventually fighting with Musevini's forces as they overthrew the Uganada's Idi Amin. Kagame recieved training in military intelligence, and became a veteran guerilla fighter. Kagame used his position in the Ugandan military to infiltrate Rwandan Tutsi soldiers into the army, allowing him to launch his 's invasion of Rwanda with the backing of his cadre's within Uganda.

Kagame launched the invasion in order to remove the Hutu dominated political party in Rwanda, and did so as the rumblings of genocide were beginning to take hold in Rwanda itself. The dictator of Rwanda, President Habyarimana, began to support the radical Hutu factions within his party, and allow the creation of Hutu militias that were armed and directed by the armed forces of Rwanda.

Kagame's RPF forces initially struggled to gain ground, but soon became an effective fighting force as they gained military experience and continued support from Uganda. As the genocide began, and the UN and international community dragged their feet, Kagame's RPF breached its recent ceasefire agreement with the Rwandan forces and pushed toward Kigali. The RPF succeeded, but Hutu Interhambwe militias and extremist elements of the government had succeeded in killing over a million Tutsi in an attempted genocide.

Kagame thus inherited a desolate country, with corpses littering the streets of Kigali and entire communities empty; either they had been killed or fled. Former Hutu forces remained on the Rwandan border, with international military support from France.

A Thousand Hills : Stephen Kinzer :

These forces took control of the refugee camps filled with Hutu refugees, and used them as springboards to launch guerilla attacks and massacres within Rwanda. Kigali was successful in its mission, and established a new dictator, Kabila, in his stead. Kabila quickly fell out with his Rwandan allies, and began to court the former Hutu administration within eastern DRC. Kagame would have none of this, and launched a second invasion. Kagame also wished to consolidate RPF control in Rwanda, and idolized the successes of authoritarian regimes in Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea and Malaysia as the "Asian Tigers" progressed rapidly and with little regard for western customs.

Kagame was largely successful, stunting political opposition and making leaps and bounds in terms of economic growth. His methods were far from conventional. People were assassinated or purged, civil rights disrupted, media freedom was clamped, and Hutu and Tutsi refugees from the Congo and Tanzania forcefully repatriated.

The economy grew in leaps and bounds, but issues of poverty still remain. Demographic concerns such as overpopulation also exist. Kagame is also still skeptical about an international community who allowed genocide to take place in the world once again, and in the case of France, actively supported it. Kinzer's account of Kagame and Rwanda is interesting. He is largely glowing in his analysis of Kagame, but does not fear to report on his authoritarian excesses and the many violent and repressive techniques used by the RPF to retain power.

Kinzer's account of the genocide is harrowing, as it would be, and he spares little detail. Kinzer is also dismissive of the International community, and the way they allowed a genocide to occur again, only a few decades after the horrors of WWII. Kagame's story is interesting, and for those who are fascinated by guided democracy and state-led growth, A Thousand Hills offers the story of one of the modern worlds main proponents of these systems.

A Thousand Hills is not a perfect story, as much of the nitty-gritty's on how these development is taking place, and the political and economic indicators behind it, are left out. Even so, Kinzer's account of the Genocide and the subsequent wars and development in and around Rwanda, and the central figure throughout all of this, Paul Kagame, is fascinating stuff.

This was a great account on Rwandan history, and as Kigali's star continues to rise, a timely account on one of the most promising developmental states in Southern Africa. Jul 27, Marialyce rated it it was amazing. This was such a powerful, moving novel that particularly focused on Paul Kigame and his ability to pull Rwanda away from its horrible past of genocide and endeavor to propel it into the most successful country in Africa. The atrocities that this country has suffered, while many including the USA under Clinton, allowed to happen are beyond belief and would fill anyone with rage and hatred.

Amazingly, the surviving Rwandans, many of them refugees, are diligently working on building their country as This was such a powerful, moving novel that particularly focused on Paul Kigame and his ability to pull Rwanda away from its horrible past of genocide and endeavor to propel it into the most successful country in Africa. Amazingly, the surviving Rwandans, many of them refugees, are diligently working on building their country as well as pursuing a somewhat religious road to forgiveness and understanding.

It is a constant struggle for the Rwandans and one that their president is keenly aware of. He is pushing them to be successful to rise up out of poverty and to make themselves responsible for not only themselves but for their country as well. If this country succeeds and one can only hope and pray it does, it will be because of the willingness and determination of the people to work, to build, and to move forward to a life that will be a shining example to those who believe that it is only through working together and that means all people working, that life can be made better and all people will be successful.

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Paul Kigame seems to be their hope, although the feelings of genocide are not really ever forgotten, many in this tiny African nation have been able to push this aside and pick up the reins of success and finally peace not only for their country but for themselves as well. Oct 10, Adrienne rated it it was amazing Recommends it for: Although the title of the book implies a larger focus on the current president Paul Kagame the man who dreamed it , the story follows his life basically only to illustrate Rwanda's history. I was looking for a book on Rwanda that would give me just the right kind of information--not too much detail, but enough for me to get a complete picture of what has gone on.

I also wanted something modern that would inform me of the state of Rwanda now. Honestly, I thought, I want a book that Fascinating. Honestly, I thought, I want a book that will tell me the kind of stuff Beth told us about. This was the book on both accounts. My only criticism of the book is that I wished Kinzer had talked more about the trials and more names of who was involved in some of the atrocities.

Kinzer does, however, give both sides to the current controversy of how Kagame is running the country. It's always interesting when good things happen when done in a bad way One of my favorite things about the book is all of the quotations from Kagame that he gave while being interviewed. It gives it a uniqueness that other "histories" don't have.

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I highly recommend it. Nov 27, Booknblues rated it it was amazing Shelves: I now have Stephen Kinzer to thank for a more thorough understanding of it as well as the development of the country since and the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. Kinzer deftly investigates the history of Rwanda and the forces which divided the Hutu and Tutsi people from colonial times under Belgium.

He chronicles Paul Kagame's life and tells the story of a refugee people. Importantly he reports the forces behind and leading up to the genocide. The story of the genocide is so very hard and made me feel physically ill, however I feel enlightened having read this book even though the words "never again" seem empty. It is not a totally depressing book as we see that there is recovery in Rwanda and I was happy to read about it.

Jul 25, Jill rated it liked it. I saw Stephen Kinzer talk a couple of times at my school. He was really interesting. I came across his latest book in my school library, and decided to read it. The way that he writes is very easy to understand, and the story kept me interested. I understand that Mr.

A Thousand Hills: Rwanda’s Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed It

Kinzer spent many hours with Paul Kagame, the president of Rwanda, and therefore he has a personal opinion of the man. The one thing that made me a bit uncomfortable with this book though, was that I was able to feel the bias toward I saw Stephen Kinzer talk a couple of times at my school. The one thing that made me a bit uncomfortable with this book though, was that I was able to feel the bias towards Kagame throughout the story.

There have been some very serious allegations against Mr. Kagame and his regime in Rwanda, and while I would expect him to justify his actions, I didn't really understand why Kinzer kept justifying his actions. When it was obvious that there were no justifications for Kagame's actions, it felt like Kinzer glossed over the situations, or tried to rationalize the behavior. Other than that though, the story is fascinating, and I look forward to the future for Rwandans.

Feb 07, Angi rated it it was amazing. A telling of Rwanda's history centered around the life of its incomparable president, Paul Kagame. His leadership pre and post genocide in creating the country that exists today exemplifies courage. I continue to try and understand all the lessons Rwanda's journey through hell and back tells us about humanity.

Reading this book while living here these next few weeks provides perspective through which I view the neighbors and patients with whom I interact everyday. Oct 25, Mlg rated it really liked it Shelves: A thoughtful retelling of the Rwandan genocide. I found the reconciliation and the gacaca's the most interesting parts. The author had unprecedented access to Rwanda's current leader, Kagame and although he offered both sides, I think he is most sympathetic to him. The fact that Paul Rusesabagina and Allison Des Forges were very opposed to Kagame, makes me suspicious of him, although no one can deny that he has led Rwanda to prosperity.

I was surprised to learn how involved the French were in a A thoughtful retelling of the Rwandan genocide. I was surprised to learn how involved the French were in arming the genocide, and how poorly Bill Clinton, Madeline Albright, Kofi Annan and the UN were in dealing with the tragedy.

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Only Romeo Dallaire, the Canadian peacekeeper has accepted any responsibility for the tragedy. May 21, Julie rated it it was amazing. This book has opened my mind possibly more than any other book! Partly due to my extreme ignorance on Rwanda but also due to Kinzer's well-researched, well-written style. Not only did I learn about Rwanda, the genocide, Paul Kangame and his part in the rebirth of Rwanda, but I also learned about how specific world leaders, countries, the U.

More and more I lament the lack of world news that we are given in the U. At the time of the genocide, all we heard about was the O. How out of balance are we?! This is a must-read for everyone!! Jun 17, Rex rated it really liked it. I only read it, because a friend of mine who is involved in humanitarian efforts in Rwanda gave it to me. I was expecting something dry and boring, but I was delightfully surprised as I found myself tearing through its pages.

It gave a clear overview of the history of the conflicts that led to the genocide, and it highlighted the flaws of supposedly humanitarian efforts that only proved counter-productive. A very pro-Kagame view of the recent history in Rwanda. Insightful in many ways, this should not stand alone as your only source of understanding. However, it does give details into Kagame that make for a better understanding of the circumstances facing Rwanda.

Jun 26, Theres Lessing rated it liked it. Kinzer gives Kagame the first and last word in his book, and that pretty much sums it up. If you want to read a book on Kagame apologetics i. Someone else wrote they could see why Kagame would justify his actions, but not why Kinzer would, and I completely agree - why write "Kagame probably committed serious human rights violations" and then completely change topic?

Does he not t Kinzer gives Kagame the first and last word in his book, and that pretty much sums it up. Does he not think we can handle it? There's a nuanced assessment to be made is a 'benevolent dictator' ultimately worth it? I assume the reason Kagame gave him so much of his time is because he's pro-regime. I'll try to read something from the other perspective now someone recommended "God sleeps in Rwanda".

Jan 09, Justinian rated it really liked it Shelves: Less hagiographic than I expected If you want to understand Rwanda, the Congo and the like you should read this. If you want to conduct an insurgency or a counter insurgency … you should read this. Feb 07, Eileen Breseman rated it really liked it. Audiobooks got me through the tough to listen to parts. Well written and very interesting to learn about the life of Paul Kagame, current president of Rwanda.

Having lived during the time of the genocide, it is interesting to have a deeper understanding of the conflict, the world's un involvement in such a humanitarian crisis, and the current efforts to heal as one nation. Plans to visit Rwanda next month made this an excellent, informative read. Jun 03, Benjamin rated it really liked it. I've read a lot of books about Rwanda, and I think this one is especially useful for gaining a basic understanding of Rwandan history, the genocide, and post-genocide reconstruction. I was worried that it would be full of nothing but praise for Kagame, and while it's clear Kinzer is sympathetic, I appreciated that he also discussed criticisms as well.

Dec 04, Lois rated it really liked it. Very intense and detailed reading, with much graphic violence described. Gives a good history of Rwanda, its leaders, its people, the genocide and how it came about, as well as more on the current atmosphere there than most other books I've read on the subject.

Dec 22, Lisa rated it it was amazing Recommended to Lisa by: Wow, Kinzer is a phenomenal writer. I thought I would be bored reading this book, but he brought Rwandan's past and present to life. Very moving to read. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn more about Rwanda and its recent history. Jan 14, Kelsey Breseman rated it really liked it.

By using our website you agree to our use of cookies. Dispatched from the UK in 3 business days When will my order arrive? Home Contact Us Help Free delivery worldwide. Rwanda's Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed it. Description A Thousand Hills: Rwanda's Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed It is the story of Paul Kagame, a refugee who, after a generation of exile, found his way home. Learn about President Kagame, who strives to make Rwanda the first middle-income country in Africa, in a single generation.

In this adventurous tale, learn about Kagame's early fascination with Che Guevara and James Bond, his years as an intelligence agent, his training in Cuba and the United States, the way he built his secret rebel army, his bloody rebellion, and his outsized ambitions for Rwanda. The Best Books of Check out the top books of the year on our page Best Books of Looking for beautiful books? Visit our Beautiful Books page and find lovely books for kids, photography lovers and more.

Flap copy In , the world stood idly by as Rwanda was devastated by the most horrifying genocide since the Holocaust. Now this tiny, land-locked nation stands poised to stun the world again--but in a very different way.

Killers and survi-vors have embarked on a breathtaking path toward reconciliation, and Rwanda has become one of the most promising countries in the developing world. How did this happen? In A "Thousand Hills," bestselling author Stephen Kinzer tells the dramatic story of Paul Kagame, whose rebel army stopped the genocide and whose government has turned Rwanda into a new star of Africa. Kagame grew up as a wretched refugee, shaped one of the most audacious covert operations in the history of clandestine warfare, and then emerged as a visionary leader with radical ideas about how poor countries can climb out of their misery.

Whether his experiment can succeed is a question that has begun to fascinate people across Africa and beyond. A "Thousand Hills" tells Kagame's astonishing story more fully than it has ever been told before. Drawingon extensive interviews with Kagame himself and with people who knew him at every stage of his life, Kinzer recounts one of the great untold stories of modern revolution. He traces Kagame through his years as a bitterly angry student, recounts his early fascination with men of action ranging from Che Guevara to James Bond, and explains how he built a secret revolutionary army in a way no one ever had before.

With the dramatic flair that has led the "Washington Post" to call him "among the best in foreign policy storytelling," Kinzer then traces the three-and-a-half-year war Kagame waged in the Rwandan bush--a war that stopped a genocide, changed the destiny of a nation, and set in motion one of the most exciting social and political experiments now under way anywhere in the world. Filled with harrowing tales of guerilla warfare, heart-wrenching accounts of the genocide carried out by the government of Rwanda, and inspiring stories of how a devastated nation can reinvent itself, A "Thousand Hills" is powerful, moving, and deeply compelling.

The courage and triumph of Paul Kagame show the beauty of reconciliation and of transcendent leadership. The world needs to learn his lessons, and Stephen Kinzer's brilliant narrative will help make this enlightenment possible. This is no hagiography, for he is depicted warts and all.

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