What were the historical origins of ethnic tensions in Rwanda?

The ethnic tensions in Rwanda originated from colonial rule, particularly under the Belgians, who favoured the Tutsi minority.

The origins of ethnic tensions in Rwanda can be traced back to the colonial era. Prior to colonial rule, the Hutu and Tutsi were not strictly defined ethnic groups, but rather social classes. The Tutsi, who were primarily cattle herders, were considered the elite, while the Hutu, who were mostly farmers, were the majority. However, these classifications were fluid, and one could move from one group to another.

When the Germans colonised Rwanda at the end of the 19th century, they maintained the existing social structure, with the Tutsi as the ruling class. However, it was under Belgian rule, which began after World War I, that the ethnic divisions were solidified. The Belgians, influenced by their own racial theories, saw the Tutsi as more 'European' and therefore superior to the Hutu. They issued identity cards that classified people as Hutu or Tutsi, making the previously fluid social classes into rigid ethnic groups.

The Belgians favoured the Tutsi, providing them with better education and opportunities, and using them to enforce their rule. This created resentment among the Hutu majority, who were marginalised and discriminated against. In the late 1950s, the Hutu began to rise up against the Tutsi and the Belgians, leading to the Rwandan Revolution in 1959. The Hutu took power and began to oppress the Tutsi, leading to decades of ethnic violence and culminating in the 1994 genocide.

In conclusion, the ethnic tensions in Rwanda were a result of colonial rule, particularly under the Belgians, who exacerbated existing social divisions and created a system of ethnic discrimination. This led to resentment and violence, which continued long after Rwanda gained independence.