UNITA
The National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (Portuguese: União Nacional para a Independência Total de Angola) (UNITA) is the second-largest political party in Angola. Founded in 1966, UNITA fought alongside the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) in the Angolan War for Independence (1961–1975) and then against the MPLA in the ensuing civil war (1975–2002).
The war was one of the most prominent Cold War proxy wars, with UNITA receiving military aid from the United States and South Africa while the MPLA received support from the Soviet Union and its allies.
UNITA was led by Jonas Savimbi from its foundation until his death in 2002. His successor as President of UNITA is Isaías Samakuva. Following Savimbi's death, UNITA abandoned armed struggle and participated in electoral politics. The party won 16 out of 220 seats in the 2008 parliamentary election.
Read more about UNITA: Founding, Civil War, Guerrilla Movement, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, Foreign Support