"I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep."
EASTERN CONGO RIVER BASIN
Geography and History
The eastern Congo River basin encompasses parts of three African nations: Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola. The history of the region is linked to its geography. Characterized by savanna and woodland, the landscape is marked by streams, lakes, and rivers. Territories have been defined by the natural markers of waterways, and chiefs and elders have long sought to control strategic crossings. Notably, the great Congo and Kasai rivers facilitated the transmission of political ideas and artistic styles.
From: http://www.nmafa.si.edu/exhibits/ipi/eastcong.htm
Images of Power and Identity: Exhibition of the National Museum of African Art at the Smithsonian Institution
LIFE ON THE CONGO
The winding path of the Congo River serves to supply some of the richest wildlife around. It lies in the heart of Africa and with its tributaries drains more than 16,000,000 square miles, providing water to many of its inhabitants, including humans, animals, and plant life.
Dominant Ecosystem of the Congo:
The Tropical Rain Forest
The land of the Congo River reflects the Congo’s true capacity to change the land. Rain forests have taken control over most of the land. The Tropical region of the river contains thick coverings of greens. The name that is given to this area is the Congolese forest. This forest is actually split into several layers, the first being low lying branches of large evergreen trees. The next level contains smaller trees and plants. Under that level lies bushes and ferns. The floor of this region consists of mainly ferns, vines, and roots that twist and turn throughout different vegetation.
From: http://web.bryant.edu/~langlois/ecology/lifeonthecongo.htm "Life on the Congo" from The Ecos: The Congo River Page website
