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River Dangu dam construction
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River Dangu dam construction
In the Belgian Congo (Zaire), local workers collect stone quarried nearby for the purpose of constructing a temporary dam on the River Dangu. The purpose was to create a lake to allow the Imperial Airways flying boat Corsair to take off. The Corsair had made a forced landing in March 1939, and following a failed attempt at take off in June 1939, was finally repaired and returned to England in January 1940 Date: January 1940
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Media ID 14134622
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Airways Belgian Congo Corsair Forced Landing Zaire January
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this historic photograph, local workers in the Belgian Congo (now Zaire) are seen collecting stones quarried nearby for the construction of a temporary dam on the River Dangu. The purpose of this dam was to create a lake large enough for the Imperial Airways flying boat Corsair to take off. The Corsair, a large and iconic flying boat, had made a forced landing on the river in March 1939, leaving the passengers and crew stranded for several weeks. Following a failed attempt at taking off in June 1939, the Corsair was finally repaired and returned to England in January 1940. The construction of the temporary dam was a crucial step in ensuring the safe departure of the aircraft, which had become a symbol of the challenges and triumphs of long-distance air travel in the pre-World War II era. The scene depicted in this photograph is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the local workforce, who labored tirelessly to help the stranded passengers and crew. The temporary dam was a remarkable feat of engineering, demonstrating the ability to adapt and overcome obstacles in the face of adversity. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, providing a window into the history of aviation and the challenges of travel in the early 20th century. The image also highlights the complex and often overlooked role of local communities in shaping the course of history, as they worked alongside imperial powers to achieve common goals. Overall, this photograph is a valuable historical record, capturing a moment in time when the world was on the cusp of great change, and the spirit of innovation and determination was at its peak.
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