Belgium continued to occupy the region for several more decades, during which time they exploited the natural resources and enforced a capitalist system through policies that often had an adverse impact on the local population.
After many years of struggle, Congo finally gained its independence in 1960, and Patrice Lumumba was elected as the prime minister of the newly-freed state.
During the Congo's struggle for independence, she made significant contributions to the political landscape and strongly advocated for women's rights.
Madame Lumumba recognized that, historically, men had often married multiple wives, but this practice was becoming less common among the wealthy due to the influence of the new political class and their newfound wealth.
As a result, they would often divorce their Congolese wives and marry Europeanized women in order to enhance their social status and political reputation.
However, this new trend was met with resistance from women like Madame Lumumba, who protested against the practice of "changer de femme," or changing wives.
The interviewer went on to summarize Pauline's relationship with her late husband, including her most well-known connection to him - a letter he wrote to her that she has never physically held.
In the wake of her loss, Pauline Lumumba mourned in a traditional fashion, leading a procession of mourners while wearing a skirt-style garment and other draped materials.
This iconic image of Pauline Lumumba has been immortalized in books and artwork, with renowned artists like Marlene Dumas creating their own interpretations in various mediums and styles.
Patrice Lumumba helped to found the Mouvement National Congolais and was elected the first Prime Minister of the independent Republic of Congo in 1960.
[13] On February 14, 1961, Pauline marched through the African neighbourhoods of the city bare-breasted, accompanied by nearly 100 of her late husband's followers, to the United Nations Headquarters.
[14] As a result of the meeting, the UN agreed to help find her late husband's body, which Pauline wanted to give a Christian burial to in the capital, Léopoldville.