Prehistory: Pygmies are first in the area.

8th century: Several kingdoms flourish along the Congo River.

1480s: Portuguese explorers begin trading peacefully, but soon start abducting slaves.

1885: King Leopold of Belgium takes over the country.

1959: Rioting breaks out in protest of Belgian rule. Independence is granted a year later.

1965: Joseph Mobutu overthrows President Moise Tshombe and later changes the country's name to Zaire.

1980s: Mobutu generates controversy with his corrupt government, but makes major steps in reforming Zaire and helping to end the civil war in Angola.

ZAIRE
Republic of Zaire

Location
Zaire is located in Central Africa, above Angola and Zambia.
Size
a little more than 1/4 the size of the United States
Coastline
Zaire's western side has a tiny piece of coast on the South Atlantic Ocean.
Terrain
Zaire has a vast central basin with mountains in the east.
Land use
3% of Zaire is fertile and can be used to grow crops.
None of the land is used for permanent crops.
4% is taken up by pastures and meadows.
78% of the land is made up of forests.
15% is left over for other uses.
Capital
Kinshasa, which is home to almost 3 million people, is Zaire's capital.
Independence
On June 30, 1960 Zaire gained independence from Belgium.
National holiday
Independence Day, June 30
Languages
French, Lingala, Swahili, Kingwana, Kikongo, and Tshiluba are spoken throughout the country.
Population
44 million (1995 est.)
Age
48% of all Zairians are between 0-14 years of age.
50% of the population is between 15-64 years old.
The remaining 2% are 65 years and over.
Life expectancy at birth
Male Zairians are expected to live to be 46.
Female Zairians are expected to live to be 49.
Total fertility rate
Women have an average of 7 children each.
Ethnic divisions
Zaire has over 200 ethnic groups. The largest group is the Bantu.
Religions
50% of Zairians are Roman Catholic, 20% are Protestant, 10% are Kimbanguist, another 10% are Muslim, and the remaining 10% follow traditional beliefs.
Literacy
72% of all Zairians are literate.
84% of males can read and write.
61% of females can read and write.