Patrice Lumumba was the first prime minister of an independent Congo. The leader of a national liberation movement, he fell victim to powerful forces that sought to control his country.

Stepping into the crisis in the Congo, Dag Hammarskjold, Secretary-General of the United Nations and one of the most brilliant diplomats of his generation, sought to bring about peace. It was a mission that cost him his life.

This episode of Assassinations Podcast will look at the machinations of Congolese politicians, Belgian imperialists, CIA agents, mercenary fighters, and the United Nations - all of which sought, in their own ways, to shape the future of the Congo and control its vast natural resources.

For more information about the people and music featured in this episode, visit the Assassinations Podcast website.