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Patrice Lumumba
Prime Minister of Congo (1960)
Democratically elected leader assassinated with CIA involvement
Overview
Patrice Lumumba was the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He was overthrown and assassinated in January 1961 with CIA involvement. Eisenhower ordered his assassination, viewing him as pro-Soviet during the Cold War.
Key Affiliations
Controversies & Concerns
First democratically elected PM of Congo assassinated in 1961 with CIA and Belgian involvement
His murder is considered one of the most significant political assassinations of the 20th century
CIA provided operational support for coup that toppled Lumumba, leading to decades of Mobutu dictatorship
Related Investigations (2)
Known Associates & Connections
Allen Dulles
CIA Director who ordered assassination
Sources & Documentation
1 documented sources from official records, investigations, and reports
Personal Information
- Born
- July 2, 1925
- Birthplace
- Onalua, Belgian Congo
Education
- •Missionary schools
Key Timeline
July 2, 1925
Born in Onalua, Belgian Congo
June 30, 1960
Congo independence, becomes Prime Minister
September 14, 1960
Overthrown in coup
January 17, 1961
Assassinated
1975
Church Committee reveals CIA involvement