Congo overview Flashcards
Who controlled the Congo between 1878 and 1959?
Belgium controlled the Congo between 1878 and 1959.
What were the main economic resources exploited in the Congo under Belgian colonial rule?
Rubber, cotton, copper, tin, and diamonds were the main economic resources exploited.
How many people are estimated to have died under King Leopold’s rule in the Congo?
Nearly 10 million people died under King Leopold’s rule (1885–1908).
What was the educational system like in the Belgian Congo?
There were few secondary schools and no higher education. In 1960, there were only 30 university graduates in a population of 14 million.
What was the state of political opportunities for Africans under Belgian rule?
There were no political opportunities for Africans, and political parties were banned
What led to the violent protests in the Congo in 1959?
The violent protests in 1959 were due to unemployment, discrimination, overcrowding, and frustration with the Belgian colonial rule.
When did the Congo gain political independence?
The Congo gained political independence on 30 June 1960.
Who became the first Prime Minister of the Congo after independence?
Patrice Lumumba became the first Prime Minister.
Who was the first President of the Congo after independence?
Joseph Kasavubu became the first President.
What event caused the military mutiny in the Congo on July 5, 1960?
The military mutiny was caused by Congolese soldiers rebelling against their Belgian officers.
Which two provinces attempted to secede shortly after independence in 1960?
The provinces of Katanga and Kasai attempted to secede.
Who led the secession of Katanga?
Moise Tshombe led the secession of Katanga.
Which superpower did Patrice Lumumba appeal to for help during the secession crisis?
Patrice Lumumba appealed to the USSR (Soviet Union) for help.
How did the United States respond to Soviet involvement in the Congo?
The United States was alarmed and supported efforts to eliminate Lumumba, fearing Soviet influence in Africa.
What happened to Patrice Lumumba?
Patrice Lumumba was arrested, and executed by firing squad on 17 January 1961.
Who became the dictator of the Congo in 1965?
Joseph Mobutu became the dictator of the Congo in 1965.
What new name did Joseph Mobutu give to the Congo in 1971?
Joseph Mobutu renamed the Congo to Zaire in 1971.
Why did Mobutu receive substantial support from the United States?
Mobutu was seen as an ally against the USSR during the Cold War, and Zaire had significant mineral wealth.
What was the economic state of Zaire under Mobutu’s rule?
Zaire experienced economic mismanagement, corruption, and a collapse of infrastructure, leading to a major economic crisis.
What was the Zairianisation policy under Mobutu?
Zairianisation involved nationalizing foreign-owned companies and redistributing wealth among Mobutu’s family and allies.
What cultural changes did Mobutu impose on Zaire?
Mobutu promoted Africanisation, renaming towns (e.g., Leopoldville to Kinshasa), requiring Africans to adopt African names, banning Western-style attire, and promoting Congolese music.
What was Mobutu’s campaign called to promote national pride in Zaire?
The campaign was called the “Authenticité” campaign.
What happened to the education system under Mobutu?
Primary education was prioritized, but it became fee-based. The system favored urban elites, and French remained the medium of instruction.
What major infrastructure project did Mobutu invest in during the 1970s?
Mobutu invested in the Inga hydroelectric dam and other industrial projects like a steel mill in Kinshasa.
Why was Mobutu’s government considered a kleptocracy?
Mobutu’s government was considered a kleptocracy because it was characterized by widespread corruption and the exploitation of state resources for personal gain.
