Moise Tshombe

ModernPoliticianDR Congo1919 — 1969

Katangan secessionist leader who later became PM.

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Quick Facts

Born

1919

Died

1969

Country

DR Congo

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)21

Political (20%)37

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)59

Strategy (15%)55

Total Score45.6

Moise Tshombe — Complete Timeline

1960 AD

Declared Katanga SecessionPolitical Action◆ Major

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.

SecessionCongo CrisisKatanga

Impact: regionaldestructive

1964 AD

Became Prime Minister of DR CongoPolitical Action◆ Major

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.

Prime MinisterCongo CrisisSimba Rebellion

Impact: national

1969 AD

Exiled and Died in AlgeriaPolitical Action

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.

ExileDeathCongo Crisis

Impact: nationaltragic