The scholars of Gabon have explained Bongo's political longevity by his corrupt appropriation of the country's economic resources. They have also attributed Bongo's long political survival to the creation of an impressive military machinery to repress rebellions, intimidate opponents, and discourage opposition to his regime. The objective of this article is to demonstrate that Bongo's political longevity is not due solely to his efficient use of economic and military resources. He was also able to establish domination over the symbolic sphere of Gabonese society. The manipulation of such religious institutions as Christianity, Freemasonry, and traditional secret societies allowed Bongo to gain control over the minds of the Gabonese by convincing die masses that he was die ideal leader for the country. Despite these manipulations, die Gabonese masses were able to use this very same symbolic system to challenge Bongo's regime and threaten the lives of members of his government.