Joseph-Désiré Mobutu orchestrated a coup d'état in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on November 24, 1965, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political trajectory. Following a period marked by turmoil and ineffective governance after gaining independence in 1960, Mobutu's ambition to establish control stemmed from the pervasive issues of corruption, civil unrest, and foreign intervention that destabilized the country. He positioned himself as a stabilizing figure amidst the chaos, gaining support from various factions in Congolese society as well as international backing from the United States during the Cold War due to his anti-communist stance.After seizing power, Mobutu established a regime characterized by authoritarianism, personalism, and a strong emphasis on nationalism, promoting the ideology of 'Authenticité' which encouraged the use of African names and cultural practices. In 1971, he renamed the Congo to Zaire, signifying a departure from its colonial past and emphasizing a new national identity. His grip on power was maintained through the suppression of political opponents, media censorship, and the establishment of a cult of personality, where he was often referred to as 'le Guide', or the Guide.Mobutu's rule experienced fluctuations in legitimacy, as he oscillated between being a benefactor praised for development projects and a dictator criticized for human rights violations and economic mismanagement. The later years of his regime were marred by economic decline, leading to significant unrest and challenges to his authority, culminating in his eventual overthrow by rebel forces led by Laurent-Désiré Kabila in 1997, which eventually ushered in a new era for the nation.