Abridged from source. Source in title. Libya: From Africa’s Wealthiest Democracy Under Gaddafi to Terrorist Haven After US Intervention Garikai Chengu Counterpunch: 20 Oct Before the 2011 NATO intervention, Libya had the highest Human Development Index score on the African continent — the United Nations' composite measure of life expectancy, education, and standard of living for ordinary citizens. Healthcare was free — including specialized treatment abroad, paid for by the state. Education from primary school through university was free. The government ran a housing program in which citizens received subsidized or provided housing. Mortgage interest rates were 0%. When Libyan couples married, the government provided $50,000 to help establish their household. Infant mortality rates were among the lowest in Africa. Female literacy had increased from 8% at the time of Libyan independence to over 80% under Gaddafi's rule. Libya's electricity was provided to citizens at extremely low or no cost. This was also, without question, an authoritarian dictatorship. Political opposition was violently suppressed. Dissidents were tortured, killed, and disappeared. Gaddafi's personal rule was frequently brutal and occasionally bizarre. [I did like the Bedouin tents in New Jersey for his UN appearance!] The architects have never accounted for these outcomes. They give speeches. They receive awards. They are not asked about the slave markets.
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