why did bokassa waste so much money on being crowned an emperor

Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who ruled the Central African Republic from 1966 to 1979, declared himself Emperor Bokassa I in 1977 and held a lavish coronation ceremony that cost an estimated 20 million dollars—a staggering sum considering the country's economic conditions. There are several reasons for this extravagant expenditure:

**Personal Ambition and Prestige**: Bokassa had a deep desire to project power and authority, aiming to align himself with other historical empires and monarchies. By crowning himself as emperor, he sought to elevate his status and that of his nation on the international stage.

**Political Legitimacy**: The coronation was an attempt to legitimize his rule, especially following a questionable rise to power through a coup. By adopting a royal title, he aimed to solidify his control and enhance his perception as a sovereign leader.

**Cultural Symbolism**: Bokassa wanted to instill a sense of national pride and identity. He believed that adopting an imperial title would unify the country and appeal to a sense of cultural heritage.

**Economic Mismanagement**: His regime was marked by considerable corruption and mismanagement. The extravagant spending on the coronation reflects his disregard for the country's poverty and his tendency to prioritize personal glorification over the well-being of the populace.

**International Perception**: Bokassa sought recognition from other nations and the international community. The grand spectacle of the coronation was intended to impress foreign dignitaries and attract investment.

Ultimately, the lavish coronation did not resonate positively with many within the Central African Republic, and it became emblematic of Bokassa's regime's excesses and disconnect from the suffering of the population. The spending associated with the ceremony contributed to his eventual downfall, as it highlighted the regime's extravagance amidst widespread poverty and economic crisis.