The History of Congo is not well known, as this country has been exploited, causing political instability and corruption. This is the 2nd of a 6 part series. Part 2 starts on June 30, 1960, when Congo gains independence from Belgium and goes through November 24, 1965 when Joseph Mobutu seizes the presidency through a coup d’etat. A hastily thrown together plan for an infant country starts out rocky and chaotic for the first five years. Several presidents, a murdered prime minister, 2 coup d’etats and a rebellion from Simba rebels resulting in the “Congo Massacre”. American and Belgian and European hostages were seized by the rebels and a daring rescue attempt was made involving paratroopers, only to have numerous people killed. Notably, Dr. Paul Carlson, a medical missionary became the most famous of the hostages that lost his life. His legacy lives on through the Dr. Paul Carlson Foundation/Partnership.
Special guests this episode include Mrs. Lois Carlson Bridges, Ted Ericson, and James Edstrom who share their stories of how their lives were impacted by the Simba rebels in the fall of 1964. Thanks too for a paper written in April, 1965 on the life of Dr. Carlson, by Gordon Andersson which provided considerable material for this episode.
The painting of the paratrooper assault on Stanleyville was shared by Ted Ericson who got it in 1982 at Karawa, D.R. Congo from a Portuguese merchant.
Recommended documentary on the life of Dr. Paul Carlson – https://vimeo.com/341846371
Recommended book written by Mrs. Lois Carlson Bridges, about her life with Dr. Paul Carlson; MONGANGA PAUL
Copyright © 2021 by Jeffrey W. Eales. All rights reserved. No portions may be reproduced or transmitted in any format without the prior written permission of the author.
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I watched the video before listening to this podcast. Really helped me visualize so much. This podcast is taking you on quite a journey!
Jeff — Lyn and I just listened to it, and it was wonderful. It filled in a lot of places that I didn’t know about. You did a wonderful job of telling the story and putting it together so excellently.
This is from Lyn Carlson, Paul Carlson’s daughter. Truly appreciated your podcast. It had quite a bit of material that I didn’t know about, which is always precious to me. I really don’t know a great deal about my dad’s death. One thing that I hadn’t ever heard was that when he gave his Bible to Gene, he said, “I’m going to die today.” I value having it confirmed how straightforward he was.
I commend you for all your research and interviews. I’m impressed that you could explain the political situation — I have never quite understood it.
My guess is that my mom thought you were writing a book, which is why she didn’t look up the podcast. She has read so many articles about my dad over the years, virtually all of which contained numerous errors. For her to be impressed by your professionalism is truly a compliment. She was very moved by your podcast.
Please don’t question the importance of your work. It seems to me it would not be hard to convert this to a book. The story of the Congolese is one that needs to be told.
Thanks Jeff.
A Congo History Course could include these, University and HS.
Informative. Covers questions unknown to ask at my young ignorant age and now. Learning something new every day is a good thing.
The episode 18 & 19 as the first installments of the history were fantastic. This podcast has opened my eyes to a rich history and people. I’ve also loved the stories of the missionaries and the collaborations.
The Leprosy episode was incredible!
What a remarkable story and experience. Thank you, Jeff, for presenting it with such precision and vivid illustration. I learned a great deal about this African country with its vast resources and the men in history who unashamedly take it for their own. Even more profound, then, the courage and tireless commitment of Dr. Carlson and his family, which you’ve told beautifully with grace and respect. Thanks for the recap at the end of the podcast, as well, for summarizing the revolving door tumult between 1960 and 1965. That put everything in glaring (and sad) perspective. Outstanding work.
Fascinating story of a tumultuous period. Dr. Paul Carlson’s faith and courage was amazing. Great job Jeff.