Overview
This is the exciting saga of the second largest country in Africa, one which has had a full experience of civil wars, tribal uprisings, revolts, plots against Presidents, and separatist invasions since being suddenly plunged into independence in 1960. The book examines how a UN force stepped in to prevent the mineral-rich province of Katanga from breaking away, staying for nearly four years, after which quarrelling war lords fought for central power. In 1965 Mobutu came to power ruling as a dictator of his Single Party State, until he was finally toppled in 1997 by a Tutsi-back invasion force led by Kabila.
Synopsis
This is the exciting saga of the second largest country in Africa, one which has had a full experience of civil wars, tribal uprisings, revolts, plots against Presidents, and separatist invasions since being suddenly plunged into independence in 1960. The book examines how a UN force stepped in to prevent the mineral-rich province of Katanga from breaking away, staying for nearly four years, after which quarrelling war lords fought for central power. In 1965 Mobutu came to power ruling as a dictator of his Single Party State, until he was finally toppled in 1997 by a Tutsi-back invasion force led by Kabila.
Booknews
Describes the experience of a huge Central African colonial country, its sudden plunge into independence in 1960, and its political struggles over the following decades. Chronicles events from the murder of the country's first Prime Minister through warlord strife, US support, corruption, and hostile political and ethnic coalitions. The author is a freelance journalist who has covered over 20 wars and insurgencies and written extensively on international relations, defense, and strategic problems. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)