Why was self-rule initially difficult for the Congo

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http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1187027745

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Thanks.

Those sites didn't help, but if you could help me I would appreciate it

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Since I don't know what you already have, these may help:

1. http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/Congo-Democratic-Republic-of-the-DROC-HISTORY.html

2. TECH_V069_S0082_P003.pdf (You will have to download a pdf file.)

I apologize for the confusion earlier. Here are some possible reasons why self-rule was initially difficult for the Congo:

1. Lack of experience with self-governance: Prior to achieving independence in 1960, the Congo had been under Belgian colonial rule for many years. The transition from being ruled by a foreign power to governing themselves was challenging, as there was limited experience and knowledge of how to effectively run a government.

2. Ethnic and regional divisions: The Congo is a diverse country with numerous ethnic groups and regional differences. This diversity often led to rivalries and conflicts, making it difficult to establish a unified government that could effectively represent and satisfy the needs of all citizens.

3. Weak institutional infrastructure: The Belgian colonial administration did not invest heavily in developing infrastructure and institutions that were necessary for self-rule. As a result, when the Congo achieved independence, there were limited resources and capabilities in place to support a functioning government, including education systems, healthcare facilities, transportation networks, and communication infrastructure.

4. Economic challenges: The Congo's economy heavily relied on the extraction and export of natural resources, such as copper, diamonds, and oil. However, the economic structures put in place during the colonial era were often exploitative, benefitting foreign companies and leaving little wealth and development opportunities for the Congolese population. This economic instability and dependency made it difficult for the newly independent Congo to establish a strong and diverse economy.

5. External interference: Even after gaining independence, the Congo faced external interference and influence from various foreign powers. This included both direct involvement and manipulation by former colonial powers, as well as the exploitation of its resources by multinational corporations. These external forces sometimes undermined efforts to establish and maintain stable self-rule in the Congo.

It is important to note that these are just some of the factors that contributed to the initial challenges faced by the Congo in achieving effective self-rule. The journey towards stability and good governance is complex, and ongoing efforts continue to address these historical issues.

To understand why self-rule was initially difficult for the Congo, it is important to consider the historical context of the country. Here is an explanation on how to find information on this topic:

1. Start by researching the history of the Congo. Look for sources that provide a detailed overview of the country's history, especially during the period when self-rule was being established. The website "Nations Encyclopedia" could be a good starting point to understand the historical background of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

2. Explore the impact of colonization. The Congo was a colony of Belgium for many years, and it gained independence in 1960. Research how Belgian colonization influenced the political, social, and economic structures of the country. This understanding will help you comprehend the challenges faced during the transition to self-rule.

3. Find sources that discuss the immediate aftermath of independence. Look for materials that analyze the specific difficulties faced by the Congo in the early years of self-rule. Sources like academic articles or books might provide in-depth explanations of the challenges encountered by the newly independent country.

4. Consider the complex ethnic and regional dynamics in the Congo. Ethnic diversity in the country has been a significant factor influencing political stability. Look for sources that discuss the ethnic divisions and how they affected the establishment of self-rule.

5. Review the impact of external interference and power struggles. The Congo faced political and military disruptions from various external forces during its early years of independence. Research how external powers and internal rivalries impacted the stability and effectiveness of self-rule.

By exploring these aspects of the Congo's history, you should be able to find information that explains why self-rule was initially difficult for the country.