Independence Day in Congo Democratic Republic ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Independence Day in Congo Democratic Republic and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The Congo Democratic Republic celebrates its independence on July 1, 1960. This date marks the end of Belgian colonial rule and the beginning of self-government for the Congo. The Congo had been a Belgian colony since 1908, and many Congolese people had fought for their independence long before 1960. On July 1, Congolese leaders declared the country’s independence and named Patrice Lumumba as its first prime minister. Lumumba was a passionate advocate for independence and was determined to lead the Congo to a better future. However, his time in office was short-lived. Less than six months after independence, Lumumba was overthrown in a military coup. He was later captured and killed by rebels. Despite Lumumba’s tragic end, the Congo’s independence day is still celebrated as a national holiday.