Resistance and rebellion against European rule was common. In 1959, riots broke out after a rally calling for independence of the Congo. Violent arguments occurred across the Congo throughout that year. After stipulating that the Congolese would not be ready for independent rule in the near future, Belgium conceded, and started making preparations for the independence of the Congo. The Belgian Congo became an independent nation on June 30, 1960 and was renamed the Federal Republic of the Congo.
Independence Flag of the Federal Republic of the Congo.