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History Extra podcast
Congo, Cold War & CIA plotting: the 1961 assassination that shook Africa
Sep 17, 2024
Stuart A Reid, author of the Cundill History Prize-shortlisted *The Lumumba Plot*, joins Elinor Evans to dissect the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, Congo's first Prime Minister. They delve into the chaotic aftermath of Congo's independence and the chilling role of the CIA in Lumumba's execution. The conversation also touches on the political climate of the time, Dag Hammarskjöld's peacekeeping efforts, and enduring repercussions of Lumumba's legacy, including the haunting fate of his remains and the impact on Congo's history.
40:09
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Quick takeaways
- Patrice Lumumba's brief premiership exemplifies the tumultuous transition to independence in Congo and the ensuing chaos of power struggles.
- The CIA's covert involvement in Lumumba's assassination illustrates the dangerous intersection of Cold War politics and American foreign policy in Africa.
Deep dives
The Rise and Fall of Patrice Lumumba
Patrice Lumumba emerged as a prominent figure in the struggle for Congolese independence after leading his country out from under Belgian colonial rule. His rise from humble beginnings, marked by self-education and political engagement, saw him become the first Prime Minister of the Republic of the Congo in 1960. However, his tenure was short-lived, lasting only about two and a half months due to escalating internal chaos and power struggles, culminating in his assassination in 1961. Lumumba's life and leadership encapsulate the turbulent period of the Congo's fight for freedom, representing both immense potential and tragic downfall.
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