Summary
Highlights
Congo, a country rich in natural resources, gained independence from Belgium in 1960. The political scene was chaotic with over 50 parties. Patrice Lumumba, leading the most popular party, advocated for a unitary state, while many others, especially the resource-rich Katanga province led by Moise Tshombe, favored a federal state with regional autonomy. Katanga, lacking representation, became a source of immediate conflict.
Upon independence, Congo faced immediate challenges: an inexperienced government (only 16 college graduates in the country), and Belgium's continued efforts to weaken and exploit the nation. An army mutiny, as Congolese soldiers demanded officer positions, provided Belgium with an excuse to send in troops, subtly accusing the new government of communist leanings.
Moise Tshombe of Katanga, defying the central government, invited Belgian forces and declared Katanga's independence, forming a mercenary army. The UN, after two weeks, demanded Belgian withdrawal but its 'neutrality' meant it wouldn't intervene against secessionist movements. This inaction led to South Kasai also seceding, frustrated Lumumba, who sought Soviet aid when the UN refused to help restore order.
Lumumba's use of Soviet aid led to US involvement. President Joseph Kasa-Vubu dismissed Lumumba, who in turn dismissed Kasa-Vubu, creating a power vacuum. The US, fearing communism, backed a coup by Joseph Mobutu, who arrested Lumumba. Lumumba eventually escaped but was recaptured, handed back to Mobutu by the 'neutral' UN, and ultimately flown to Katanga where he was executed under Belgian pressure.
After Lumumba's death, the UN was granted permission to use force. While factions momentarily negotiated, Katanga's mercenary army remained. The UN forcibly disarmed them, driving Tshombe into exile. A ceasefire, however, was broken by Tshombe, leading to his final defeat and flight to Spain. Congo was briefly reunited under Kasa-Vubu.
A new rebellion in Stanleyville forced Kasa-Vubu to recall Tshombe and his mercenaries to quell the uprising. Though successful, Tshombe's growing ambition to become president led to his dismissal by Kasa-Vubu. Before a new conflict could erupt, Mobutu, backed by the CIA, overthrew both of them, establishing a one-party dictatorship, effectively ending the Congo Crisis (and any remaining hopes for democracy).