Joseph Tate Bayly (1920–1986)

This is a well written account of the Rebel uprising in the Congo in 1964, focused on the experience of white missionaries and Congolese Christians as they were arrested, harassed, tortured, and many of them murdered during this time of unrest.
Based on journal entries, interviews, and discussions with the missionaries themselves, this is an account of what they experienced and how they reacted to it. It is never preachy or sensational, and it is never boring. He provides good context for the continent, the country, and many of the people. The book provides a good view of how historical acts and atrocities leave long-lasting affects. And how personal responsibility also plays a part. The release of countries from colonialism can be a time of upheaval, and the timing of doing so, with training and preparing the nationals after a period of paternalism, can be difficult to navigate. The Congo is one example of this struggle.
Short enough to read in an afternoon, but with enough food for thought for a long time. Sure, 1964 seems like it was a long time ago, but this book deals with issues that are timeless.… (mehr)