(August 26, 2009) A failed coup attempt...a dictator suspicious of Western powers...and beneath it all, a spectacular underwater oil reserve. Once Upon a Coup is WIDE ANGLE’s penetrating look at the mysterious goings-on in Equatorial Guinea, a tiny West African nation newly rich with oil and infamous for corruption.

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Watch the full episode of Once Upon a Coup, a tale of intrigue from the oil-rich country of Equatorial Guinea.

WIDE ANGLE speaks with a private security contractor who responds to criticism that his industry operates outside the law.

Scroll through this interactive timeline to learn about Equatorial Guinea’s colonial past, transition to independence under a brutal dictator, and ongoing wealth disparity amid new oil revenue.

China has a voracious demand for resources that Africa possesses. Explore this interactive map to learn where China is extracting oil and minerals from the African continent.

Find additional web-based resources about Equatorial Guinea.

Filmmaker Chris Olgiati describes his experience making Once Upon a Coup.

Credits for Once Upon A Coup

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