Mike Hoare

ModernGeneralSouth Africa1919 — 2020

Mad Mike, mercenary leader in Congo.

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Quick Facts

Born

1919

Died

2020

Country

South Africa

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)40

Political (20%)26

Influence (20%)51

Legacy (20%)39

Leadership (15%)35

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score40.1

Mike Hoare — Complete Timeline

1964 AD

Recruited to lead mercenary unit '5 Commando' in the CongoWar◆ Major

Hoare was hired by the Congolese government to command 5 Commando, a unit of white mercenaries. His mission was to suppress the Simba rebellion, which he did with brutal efficiency, earning the nickname 'Mad Mike'.

5 CommandoSimba Rebellion

Impact: regional

Led Operation Dragon Rouge to rescue hostages in StanleyvilleWar◆ Major

Hoare's 5 Commando participated in Operation Dragon Rouge, a joint Belgian-US mission to rescue hostages held by Simba rebels in Stanleyville. The operation successfully freed hundreds of hostages but resulted in many rebel casualties.

Operation Dragon RougeHostage Rescue

Impact: regional

1981 AD

Attempted a coup in the SeychellesPolitical Action◆ Major

Hoare led a group of mercenaries in an attempt to overthrow the government of the Seychelles. The coup failed when the mercenaries were discovered at the airport, leading to a shootout and their eventual capture or escape.

Seychelles CoupMercenary

Impact: nationaldestructive

1982 AD

Tried and imprisoned for hijackingPolitical Action◆ Major

After the failed Seychelles coup, Hoare and his men hijacked an Air India plane to escape. He was arrested in South Africa, tried for hijacking, and sentenced to prison, though he was released after a few years.

HijackingTrial

Impact: globaltragic