Petro-Politics in Congo

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Abstract
Like other former French colonies, Congo began its independent existence in 1960 impoverished but nominally democratic. The country’s first president, Fulbert Youlou, exemplified the conservative, neocolonial personality. Youlou sympathized with the separatist regime of Moïse Tshombe in the Katanga region, in what has until recently been known as Zaire, but deferred to France on most other matters. Moreover, Youlou had no comprehensive vision for Congo’s economic development. The population was relatively urbanized, educated, and sophisticated by African standards, and was thus impatient with his policies. As a result, Youlou was forced to resign after civilian street riots during three days in 1963, now known as les trois glorieuses.