 The 1964–1965 edition of the "Adelphi Papers" speculates that the continued presence of young French military officers in Gabon may have been an inspiration to the plotters of the coup.Much of the 600-man Gabonese army had previously served in the French army prior to independence, where they were paid modestly.Like much of the rest of the country, they were displeased by M'ba's actions against Aubame, a probable cause for involvement.