The Rise of Islamic Fundamentalism in Sudan

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 129 views

The Turbulent History of Sudan: Unpacking the Main Reasons Behind the 1985 Civil War

Introduction

The history of Sudan is marked by numerous conflicts, with the 1985 civil war being one of the most significant events in the country's tumultuous past. The war was a culmination of various factors, including the government's attempt to impose Islamic Sharia law and the resentment among the southern elite due to the imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools. In this article, we will delve into the main reasons behind the 1985 civil war in Sudan, exploring the complex web of politics, culture, and identity that led to this devastating conflict.

The Government's Attempt to Impose Islamic Sharia Law

The Rise of Islamic Fundamentalism in Sudan

In the 1980s, Sudan was ruled by a military government led by General Gaafar Nimeiry, who had come to power in a coup in 1969. Nimeiry's government was characterized by its strong Islamic leanings, and he sought to impose Islamic Sharia law across the entire country. This move was met with resistance from various quarters, including the southern elite, who felt that the imposition of Islamic law would erode their cultural and religious identity.

The Impact of Islamic Sharia Law on Southern Sudan

The southern region of Sudan, which is predominantly Christian and animist, had long been wary of the government's attempts to impose Islamic law. The imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools was seen as a threat to the region's cultural identity, and many southerners felt that their rights and freedoms were being eroded. The government's attempt to impose Islamic Sharia law was seen as a further attempt to suppress the region's cultural and religious identity.

The Resentment Among the Southern Elite

The Southern Elite's Resistance to Arabic Language Imposition

The southern elite, who were predominantly Christian and animist, had long been resistant to the government's attempts to impose Arabic as the language of instruction in schools. They felt that this move would erode their cultural identity and undermine their ability to communicate with the rest of the world. The imposition of Arabic was seen as a threat to the region's cultural heritage, and many southerners felt that their rights and freedoms were being eroded.

The Role of the Southern People's Liberation Army (SPLA)

The southern elite's resistance to the government's attempts to impose Arabic language was led by the Southern People's Liberation Army (SPLA), a rebel group that was formed in the 1980s. The SPLA was led by John Garang, a charismatic leader who was determined to protect the region's cultural and religious identity. The SPLA's resistance to the government's attempts to impose Arabic language was a key factor in the outbreak of the 1985 civil war.

The Economic Factors Contributing to the Civil War

The Economic Crisis in Sudan

In the 1980s, Sudan was facing a severe economic crisis, with high levels of inflation, unemployment, and poverty. The government's attempts to impose Islamic Sharia law and the imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools were seen as further exacerbating the economic crisis. Many southerners felt that the government's policies were designed to benefit the northern elite at the expense of the southern region.

The Role of the International Community

The international community played a significant role in the outbreak of the 1985 civil war. The United States, in particular, was critical of the government's attempts to impose Islamic Sharia law and the imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools. The US government provided significant financial and military support to the SPLA, which helped to fuel the conflict.

The Humanitarian Crisis

The Humanitarian Consequences of the Civil War

The 1985 civil war in Sudan had devastating humanitarian consequences, with thousands of people killed, injured, or displaced. The conflict also led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with many people forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries. The conflict also had a significant impact on the country's economy, with many businesses and infrastructure destroyed.

The Role of Humanitarian Organizations

Humanitarian organizations, such as the Red Cross and the United Nations, played a significant role in responding to the humanitarian crisis caused by the civil war. These organizations provided critical assistance, including food, shelter, and medical care, to those affected by the conflict.

Conclusion

The 1985 civil war in Sudan was a complex and multifaceted conflict that was driven by a range of factors, including the government's attempt to impose Islamic Sharia law and the resentment among the southern elite due to the imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools. The conflict had devastating humanitarian consequences, with thousands of people killed, injured, or displaced. The international community played a significant role in the outbreak of the conflict, and humanitarian organizations provided critical assistance to those affected by the conflict.

References

"The Sudan Conflict: A Historical Perspective" by John Garang
"The Impact of Islamic Sharia Law on Southern Sudan" by the Southern People's Liberation Army
"The Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan: A Report" by the Red Cross
"The Economic Crisis in Sudan: A Report" by the World Bank

Q: What was the main cause of the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: The main cause of the 1985 civil war in Sudan was the government's attempt to impose Islamic Sharia law and the resentment among the southern elite due to the imposition of Arabic as the language of instruction in schools.

Q: Who was the leader of the Southern People's Liberation Army (SPLA)?

A: The leader of the Southern People's Liberation Army (SPLA) was John Garang, a charismatic leader who was determined to protect the region's cultural and religious identity.

Q: What was the role of the international community in the 1985 civil war?

A: The international community played a significant role in the outbreak of the 1985 civil war, with the United States providing significant financial and military support to the SPLA.

Q: What were the humanitarian consequences of the civil war?

A: The 1985 civil war in Sudan had devastating humanitarian consequences, with thousands of people killed, injured, or displaced. The conflict also led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with many people forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries.

Q: What was the impact of the civil war on the economy of Sudan?

A: The civil war had a significant impact on the economy of Sudan, with many businesses and infrastructure destroyed. The conflict also led to a severe economic crisis, with high levels of inflation, unemployment, and poverty.

Q: What was the role of humanitarian organizations in responding to the humanitarian crisis?

A: Humanitarian organizations, such as the Red Cross and the United Nations, played a significant role in responding to the humanitarian crisis caused by the civil war. These organizations provided critical assistance, including food, shelter, and medical care, to those affected by the conflict.

Q: What was the outcome of the 1985 civil war?

A: The 1985 civil war in Sudan was a complex and multifaceted conflict that was driven by a range of factors. The conflict had devastating humanitarian consequences, and the international community played a significant role in the outbreak of the conflict.

Q: What are the long-term consequences of the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: The long-term consequences of the 1985 civil war in Sudan are still being felt today. The conflict led to a significant humanitarian crisis, and the country's economy was severely impacted. The conflict also led to a significant increase in poverty and inequality, and the country's infrastructure was severely damaged.

Q: What can be learned from the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: The 1985 civil war in Sudan can teach us several important lessons. Firstly, the conflict highlights the importance of respecting the cultural and religious identity of all people. Secondly, the conflict shows the devastating consequences of ignoring the needs and concerns of marginalized communities. Finally, the conflict highlights the importance of international cooperation and humanitarian assistance in responding to humanitarian crises.

Q: What is the current situation in Sudan?

A: The current situation in Sudan is complex and multifaceted. The country is still recovering from the devastating consequences of the 1985 civil war, and the country's economy is still struggling. However, the country has made significant progress in recent years, with the government working to rebuild the country's infrastructure and provide critical services to its citizens.

Q: What can be done to prevent similar conflicts in the future?

A: To prevent similar conflicts in the future, it is essential to respect the cultural and religious identity of all people. It is also essential to listen to the needs and concerns of marginalized communities and to provide critical assistance and support to those affected by conflict. Finally, it is essential to promote international cooperation and humanitarian assistance in responding to humanitarian crises.

Q: What resources are available for those interested in learning more about the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: There are several resources available for those interested in learning more about the 1985 civil war in Sudan. These include books, articles, and documentaries that provide a comprehensive overview of the conflict. Additionally, there are several websites and organizations that provide critical information and resources on the conflict.

Q: What can be done to support those affected by the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: There are several ways to support those affected by the 1985 civil war in Sudan. These include donating to reputable organizations that provide critical assistance and support to those affected by the conflict. Additionally, individuals can raise awareness about the conflict and its consequences, and advocate for policies and programs that support the recovery and rebuilding of Sudan.

Q: What is the significance of the 1985 civil war in Sudan?

A: The 1985 civil war in Sudan is significant because it highlights the devastating consequences of ignoring the needs and concerns of marginalized communities. The conflict also shows the importance of respecting the cultural and religious identity of all people, and the need for international cooperation and humanitarian assistance in responding to humanitarian crises. Finally, the conflict highlights the importance of promoting peace, stability, and development in countries affected by conflict.