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In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz
352 pages, 2001
Mobutu Sese Seko, president of Zaire for thirty-two years, was a cunning leopard who spent his reign alluring Western powers and dominating the people with an enthralling combination of cruelty and allure.
In a jungle palace, he was filled with opulence, and he splurged on diamonds as he accumulated a substantial fortune by pauperizing the country's copper mines.
Once journalist Michela Wrong witnessed firsthand Mobutu's last days in 1997, she decided to write about his life, shedding light on the man who became the archetype of an African despot. Her engrossing, highly readable book assesses Congo's underdevelopment and poor governance.
In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz gives you a deep look into the reign of Mobutu Sese Seko, the dictator of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). Michela Wrong explores how Mobutu's rule was characterized by corruption, nepotism, and economic mismanagement, leading to the country's downfall.
The book also digs into the impact of colonialism on African countries. It shows how the legacy of Belgian colonial rule in Congo set the stage for Mobutu's dictatorship and the country's subsequent struggles.
Michela Wrong also highlights the role of Western countries in supporting Mobutu's regime. Despite his despotic rule, Mobutu was seen as a useful ally by the West during the Cold War, which turned a blind eye to his abuses.
In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz doesn't just focus on political and economic issues. It also takes a look at the human cost of Mobutu's rule, showing how ordinary Congolese people suffered under his regime.
Finally, the book shows the complexity of African politics. It explores how tribal loyalties, foreign interference, and the legacy of colonialism all play a role in shaping the continent's political landscape. This is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of African politics.
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