Houphouetism is a conservative political ideology that was named for Felix Houphouet-Boigny, the head of state of Cote d'Ivoire from 1960 to 1993. The ideology emphasized political moderation, African nationalism, and strong ties with Western Europe, and Houphouet-Boigny pursued close relations with France. It also advocated anti-communism, as the country severed its diplomatic ties with the Soviet Union in 1969 and refused to recognize the government of China until 1983. After his death in 1993, Cote d'Ivoire was engulfed by civil warfare and coups, with no leader being able to replace the late Houphouet-Boigny. Instead, his former disciples would continue to lead parties such as the Democratic Party of Cote d'Ivoire and the Rally of the Republicans, all of which espoused his policies.