French Congo (now Gabon)
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Leon M'ba
Libreville, French Congo (now Gabon)
Archival Overview
First President of Gabon who led the country to independence in 1960, restored to power by French paratroopers following the 1964 coup, establishing Franco-Gabonese strategic ties.
Biographical Record
A member of the Fang ethnic group, Leon M'ba (1902–1967) worked as a colonial customs officer and journalist before being exiled by French authorities to Oubangui-Chari (Central African Republic) for political agitation. Returning to Gabon, he was elected mayor of Libreville in 1956.
Upon independence in August 1960, M'ba became president. Overthrown in a military coup on February 17, 1964, he was reinstated twenty-four hours later by French paratroopers on direct orders from Charles de Gaulle, securing Gabon's oil, timber, and uranium partnerships.
Key Life Milestones
First President of Gabon
Proclaimed the sovereign independence of Gabon, directing state development of natural resources.
Restoration after the 1964 Coup
Reinstated to the presidency after French military intervention under the Franco-Gabonese defense pact.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialLibreville, Gabon