FARC is the abbreviation for The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, a revolutionary guerrilla organization in Colombia. FARC was formed out of the Colombian Communist Party, and openly proclaims its affiliation with Marxist and Leninist doctrine. Because of its clearly-communicated desire to overthrow the existing government and its armed aggression and kidnappings, Colombian officials view FARC as a terrorist group. In addition to the domestic government, FARC has declared the United States, Canada, the European Union, and other Colombian paramilitary groups as enemies.
Key Dates
- 1966: FARC officially formed, led by former South American revolutionaries and guerrillas
- 1982: Organized the Seventh Guerrilla Conference to layout plans short-term action plans and long-term political goals
- 2002: Formed the Clandestine Columbian Communist Party after participation in cocaine trade separated them from Communist Party
- June 28, 2007: Announced that it had killed 11 of 12 provincial deputies of the Colombian government that had been captured in 2002
- July 2, 2008: Farc hostages Thomas Howes, Keith Stansell, Marc Gonsalves and Ingrid Betancourt are rescued
References
Fast Facts
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Official name
Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia – Ejército del Pueblo (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People's Army)
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Also known as
FARC
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Number of members
6,000-8,000 (official estimate), 18,000 (outside estimate)
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Goal
Overthrow of the Colombian Government
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Year founded
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Leaders
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Country of origin
Colombia
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Fact:
Estimated 18,000 members
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Main areas of operation
