Ugandan head of state (1971–79). Possessed of only rudimentary education, Amin rose through the ranks of the army to become its commander. In 1971 he overthrew President Obote and seized power. His rule was characterized by the advancing of narrow tribal interests, the expulsion of non‐Africans (most notably Ugandan Asians), and violence on a huge scale. He was overthrown with Tanzanian assistance in 1979 and went into exile in Saudi Arabia until his death.