Siege and Capture of Kong
Summary
The capture of Kong in December 1897 ended the supremacy of the great commercial kingdom of northern Côte d'Ivoire, long allied with Samory Touré. After a short but intense siege marked by artillery fire and successive assaults against the walls, the town fell to Binger's column. It was a key step in French advance toward the Niger and submission of the last African bastions.
Historical context
Kong, an influential caravan and religious center, served as a stronghold and refuge for Samory's partisans. After Samory's defeat against the French further east, Binger organized a mission to secure control of the region. The capture of Kong aimed to cut supply routes and eliminate all organized resistance in northern Côte d'Ivoire.
Tactics
Binger advanced his troops in two columns to encircle the city. Artillery pounded the walls while tirailleurs advanced under cover. Several bayonet assaults overcame defenses. Defenders, demoralized and overwhelmed, capitulated after two days of fighting.
Consequences
The capture of Kong precipitated the fall of the last centers of resistance in the region. Commercial routes from the Niger to the Atlantic coast were now controlled by France. The colonial empire consolidated in West Africa, paving the way for the capture of Sikasso and arrest of Samory Touré the following year.