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Patrice Lumumba: The Slain Prophet of Congo

Alvin Bell

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Patrice Lumumba (Ohio Short Histories of Africa)

by Georges Nzongola-Ntalaja

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	361 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages

Patrice Lumumba was a Congolese independence leader and the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He was assassinated in 1961 by a firing squad led by Belgian mercenaries. This book tells the story of Lumumba's life and legacy.

Early Life and Education

Patrice Lumumba was born on July 2, 1925, in the village of Onalua, Belgian Congo. His father was a farmer and his mother was a homemaker. Lumumba was a bright and ambitious child, and he excelled in school. He attended the Catholic mission school in his village and later went on to study at the prestigious Lovanium University in Leopoldville.

Political Activism

Lumumba became involved in politics while he was a student at Lovanium University. He joined the Congolese National Movement (MNC),a political party that was fighting for independence from Belgium. Lumumba quickly rose through the ranks of the MNC and became one of its most prominent leaders.

In 1958, Lumumba led the MNC in a series of protests against Belgian rule. The protests were successful, and Belgium agreed to grant Congo independence in 1960. Lumumba was elected Prime Minister of the new Congo.

Prime Minister of Congo

As Prime Minister, Lumumba faced a number of challenges. The Congo was a newly independent country, and it was struggling to build a stable government. Lumumba also had to deal with the legacy of Belgian colonialism. Belgium had left Congo with a weak economy and a poorly educated population.

Despite these challenges, Lumumba made significant progress during his time as Prime Minister. He introduced a number of social and economic reforms, and he also began to build a strong military. However, Lumumba's time as Prime Minister was cut short by his assassination.

Assassination

On January 17, 1961, Lumumba was arrested by a group of Belgian mercenaries. He was taken to a military camp and executed by a firing squad. Lumumba's assassination shocked the world and led to widespread condemnation of Belgium.

Legacy

Patrice Lumumba is a national hero in Congo. He is remembered as a symbol of African independence and self-determination. Lumumba's legacy continues to inspire people around the world who are fighting for justice and equality.

Patrice Lumumba was a remarkable man who made a significant contribution to the history of Africa. He was a visionary leader who fought for the freedom of his people. Lumumba's life and legacy are a reminder that even the smallest of us can make a difference in the world.

Patrice Lumumba, Prime Minister Of The Democratic Republic Of The Congo Patrice Lumumba (Ohio Short Histories Of Africa)