Key dates on Congo

Question 1

When did King Leopold’s rule over the Congo take place?

Answer 1

1885-1908
Leopold’s personal control over the Congo led to widespread exploitation and atrocities, including the deaths of nearly 10 million people.

Question 2

When did violent protests in Congo lead Belgium to grant independence?

Answer 2

1959
The riots were sparked by unemployment, discrimination, and overcrowding, forcing Belgium to reconsider its colonial hold on the Congo.

Question 3

When was political independence granted to the Congo?

Answer 3

30 June 1960
On this date, the Congo became independent, although Belgium retained control over the economy and military.

Question 4

When did the military mutiny in the Congo occur?

Answer 4

5 July 1960
The Congolese Army mutinied against their Belgian officers, marking the beginning of chaos and instability after independence.

Question 5

When was Patrice Lumumba assassinated?

Answer 5

17 January 1961
Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Congo, was murdered with the involvement of the CIA, Mobutu, Tshombe, and Belgian agents.

Question 6

When did Joseph Mobutu seize power and establish a one-party state in Zaire?

Answer 6

1965
Mobutu led a coup, ousted the government, and created a one-party state, positioning himself as the dictator of the Congo (now Zaire).

Question 7

When did Mobutu officially rename the Congo to Zaire?

Answer 7

1971
Mobutu renamed the country as part of his effort to rebrand it under his authoritarian rule and reinforce his personal power.