Background Themes
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TCKs in the storyThe central character in Congo Shadows is a TCK. His cultural identity, acquired during his developmental years, is neither Congolese nor American, but something in-between. It's a culture shared with his MK peers. It draws him back to Africa.
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Simba RebellionThe Simba rebels (Swahili for lion) were a "peoples army" recruited and trained by Gen. Nicholas Olenga. He combined witchcraft, ruthless violence and terror to eventually conquer nearly half of Congo.
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Congo's IndependenceThere were few educated or experienced nationals to lead when Congo suddenly became a nation. The power struggles that resulted from this leadership vacuum created dangers for citizens and foreigners alike. Civil war raged for years.
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MercenariesWhite mercenaries from South and East Africa played a significant role in Congo's early civil wars. They were brutal, amoral hired guns who effectively tipped the balance for Congo's inept national army. Their mantra: shoot first, take no prisoners, help yourself to the spoils of war.
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Missions in the 1960sIn the early 1960s Protestant mission work in the Congo still took place mostly from mission stations. Two major evacuations of missionaries, (1960 & 1964), because of the civil war violence changed this. UN and mercenary forces rescued many.
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Stanleyville rescueNearly 1,600 expatriates were held captive by the Simba rebels in Stanleyville for 111 days. Finally, the US and Belgian governments arranged a dramatic rescue (Dragon Rouge) by paratroopers and mercenaries. Some expats and countless Congolese were killed.
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Travel in the bushMuch of the action in Congo Shadows takes place in the back country.Travel in the bush is an adventure of the first order. Roads are not maintained, parts and help are not available, mishaps are common, travelers are vulnerable.
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Writing the bookWriting this novel was a process, not an event. It wove together a fictional storyline with real life people and events. It involved input from former Congo residents, TCKs and a variety of written sources.
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Useful ResourcesSome of the key resources that were utilized in writing Congo Shadows are identified. They may serve as a springboard for further reading.
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One of the major themes in Congo Shadows is that of forgiveness. One way of understanding this notion is thinking of it as "canceling the debt" incurred by the offending party. "You no longer owe me..."
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Some claim that deadly threat must always be met with force. Christian pacifists contend that Jesus taught there *is* an alternative. It is not an easy one: being willing to trust God & suffer harm rather than inflict it.
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Broken relationships call for healing and reconciliation. This is a humbling experience and not always possible since it involves the will and assent of both parties to succeed.
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