Justin Andress
For four long decades, Muammar Gaddafi maintained a tight hold on Libyan society. In the midst of threats both external and homegrown, Gaddafi built up a cult of personality that rivaled history’s great dictators. In the end, however, his regime was brought down in a violent overthrow that saw the once great dictator brutally savaged before being executed by his political opponents. In the years since his 2011 death, Gaddafi has been cast as a merciless tyrant and — if the reports are to be believed — the authorities had every reason to do just that. Yet, some of the Libyan nationals who lived through Gaddafi’s rule would paint a much different picture of one of the most prominent figures of the latter 20th century.
1. Let’s Start With the Monster
To understand the uphill battle that fans of Muammar Gaddafi are facing, you should know the charges. In the latter days of Gaddafi’s regime, his forces were becoming increasingly desperate to maintain control of the country. As a result, they were given the go ahead to commit some truly horrible acts on their fellow citizens. When the dust settled, the UN Security Council voted unanimously to charge the dictator with crimes against humanity. Specifically, Gaddafi reportedly ordered the execution of citizens, mass arrests, and torture for the simple act of talking to the press or attending an anti-government protest. There were also allegations that Gaddafi’s forces were issued Viagra along with an order to use rape as a means of subjugating those members of the population who helped rebel forces.
