The Derg was a military junta that ruled Ethiopia from 1974 to 1991. It emerged after the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie and aimed to implement socialist reforms. The Derg was known for its authoritarian governance and human rights abuses, including the Red Terror campaign against perceived political opponents. Under the Derg, Ethiopia experienced significant changes, including land redistribution and nationalization of industries. However, these policies led to economic challenges and widespread famine in the 1980s. The Derg's rule ended when the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) took control in 1991, leading to a new political era.