A King with Imperial Ambitions
Leopold II became King of Belgium in 1865 and sought to expand Belgium’s influence. He focused on acquiring territory in Africa, eventually gaining control over the Congo Free State in 1885 after securing approval from European powers.
Ruling the Congo as a Private Colony
Unlike other European colonies, the Congo Free State was not owned by Belgium but personally controlled by Leopold II. He presented his rule as a humanitarian mission, claiming to promote civilization and stop the slave trade, but instead, the region became a site of forced labor and resource exploitation.
The Rubber Trade and Forced Labor
The demand for natural rubber led to extreme measures. Local Congolese were forced to collect rubber under brutal conditions. Those who failed to meet quotas faced severe punishments, including whippings, mutilation, and executions. Reports of abuse spread, drawing international attention.
International Outrage and the End of His Rule
By the early 1900s, widespread reports of atrocities led to international protests. In 1908, after pressure from human rights activists and foreign governments, Leopold was forced to transfer control of the Congo to Belgium, ending his personal rule over the territory.
