Heungseon Daewongun vs Moise Tshombe

Heungseon Daewongun became regent for his young son King Gojong, effectively ruling Joseon. He implemented isolationist policies, suppressing Christianity and resisting foreign trade and influence.

Heungseon Daewongun initiated the reconstruction of Gyeongbokgung Palace, which had been destroyed during the Japanese invasions. The project drained state finances but restored a symbol of royal authority.

In response to the persecution of Catholics, a French naval force attacked Ganghwa Island. Heungseon Daewongun's forces repelled the French, leading to a Korean victory and reinforcing isolationist policies.

Heungseon Daewongun ordered a widespread persecution of Roman Catholics in Joseon, executing thousands of converts and French missionaries. This led to the French campaign against Korea in 1866.

Tshombe declared the independence of the mineral-rich Katanga province from the newly independent DR Congo. This secession triggered the Congo Crisis, with Tshombe's regime backed by Belgian mining interests and mercenaries.

Tshombe was appointed prime minister of the DR Congo by President Kasa-Vubu, tasked with ending the Simba rebellion. His return to national politics was controversial due to his role in the Katanga secession.

After being ousted from power, Tshombe went into exile in Spain. He was sentenced to death in absentia for treason. He died in Algeria under disputed circumstances, reportedly from a heart attack or poisoning.