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Angola

Stamps issued: 1975-PRESENT

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5-kwanza National Soccer Championships Benguela, May 1 single
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5-kwanza San Pedro da Bara single
 

The Angolan coast came under Portuguese control in the 16th century, and the interior was conquered during the late 19th century. Angolan nationalist groups waged a guerrilla war against the Portuguese during 1961-74, and on Nov. 11, 1975, Angola became an independent nation. With the withdrawal of Portugal, the three largest of the nationalist groups quickly fell out over the composition of the new government. The ensuing civil war caused most of the whites remaining in Angola to emigrate and brought the economic collapse of the country. The Soviet-supported faction, with the aid of Cuban troops, controlled the central government and the western portion of the country, while a South African supported faction (UNITA) controlled much of the interior. An agreement ending the civil war was implemented in 1997 but soon fell apart. Hostilities continue, with the UNITA forces controlling much of the country.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

Precedent Countries:


PORTUGUESE TERRITORY
Stamps issued: 1870-1975

The Angolan coast came under Portuguese control in the 16th century, and the interior was conquered during the late 19th century. Angolan nationalist groups waged a guerrilla war against the Portuguese during 1961-74, and on Nov. 11, 1975, Angola became an independent nation.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

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20-centavo Elephant single
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50-centavo 350th Anniversary of Benguela single
 

PORTUGUESE CONGO
Stamps issued: 1894-1918

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300-reis King Carlos single

A district of Angola lying north of the Congo River, separated from Angola by Zaire. It was administered as the Portuguese Congo until its incorporation with the colony of Angola.

Narrative by Linn's Stamp News

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