User:Indy beetle/Independence of the Belgian Congo

The independence of the Belgian Congo was a process that occurred in 1959 and 1960 that culminated in Belgium relinquishing control of its colony and the founding of the Republic of the Congo (Léopoldville).

Background
17 college graduates

Elections


On 29 June, Eyskens presented Lumumba with the Order of the Crown, one of Belgium's highest decorations.

Festivities
Ambroise Boimbo

Celebrations took place in cities all over the Congo, including (aside from the capital) Stanleyville, Luluabourg, Coquilhatville, Costermansville. In Élisabethville, Tshombe attended mass at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral before going to a nearby Protestant church and finally a local synagogue.