The area was visited by the Portuguese in the 14th century. Congo became part of French Equatorial Africa and was known as "Middle Congo" from 1908 until 1958. It became independent as the Republic of Congo in 1960. A military coup created the first Marxist state in Africa and the country was named the People's Republic of Congo in 1968. In 1991 the country was again renamed to the Republic of Congo after Marxism was renounced.
Postage stamps have been issued for Middle Congo from 1907 until 1933. Stamps for the Republic of Congo have been issued since 1959.
Direction des Postes Centre philatelique ONPT Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
