The Tuareg people are a historically nomadic ethnic group with populations across Mali, Algeria, Libya, Niger and Burkina Faso. Over the past year, the Tuareg's progress in creating their own state has attracted international attention, particularly their progress in Mali. This conflict has involved many actors from the international community and appears to have no end in sight. Unrest has been plaguing Mali for some time; the country has experienced a series of coups and ousted leaders since its liberation from the French in 1959. However, since 2002, Mali has enjoyed somewhat peace until 2012. precarious, under the leadership of President Amadou Touré. Despite significant food shortages in 2005, a thriving cocaine trade, military operations against Al-Qaeda-linked militants, and heavy corruption, Mali appeared to be doing quite well with its peaceful democratic elections and the discovery of mineral wealth in its deserts. Many have hailed Mali as the beacon of democracy in West Africa. However, in April 2012, Tuareg rebels took control of northern Mali and declared independence. In May, the Islamist rebel group Ansar Dine joined with the Tuareg and declared northern Mali an Islamic state. However, no other country has recognized their secession. Following the Tuareg rebellion, junta leaders led a coup to overthrow President Amadou Touré, having already deposed him after accusing him of failing to control the Tuareg rebellion, and put Captain Amadou Sanogo at the head of the country. This mid-ranking officer, known for his charisma, had promised to defeat the rebels, but due to the lack of power of his weapons, the coup actually allowed the allied rebels to tighten their grip on the north. The partnership between the Tuareg and the An...... middle of paper ...... Strength: are wars always winnable?" BBC News. BBC, March 5, 2013. Web. May 1, 2013. . Marcus, Jonathan. “French success in Mali may herald 'war of shadows'” BBC News, January 30, 2013. Web, May 1, 2013. “Conflict in Mali: French troops “dismantle Al-Qaeda base” » BBC News. BBC, August 3, 2013. Web, May 1, 2013. “Crisis in Mali: French soldiers must be withdrawn in April” BBC News BBC, March 6, 2013. Web, May 1, 2013. “Crisis in Mali: key players." BBC News. BBC, December 3, 2013. Web. May 1, 2013. “Mali Conflict: British Soldiers to Train Armed Forces.” BBC News. BBC, February 18, 2013. Web. May 1 2013. .