In 1874 King Leopold II began his interest in the Congo and sent a journalist to explore it and make treaties with the native people. These treaties allowed King Leopold II to take position as the colony’s leader, it also gave Leopold rights to exploit people and resources in the Congo. Leopold coming to power was largely significant because it showed his greed and soon to be inhuman treatment of the Congolese people through the fact that he made many indigenous people sign away their land without knowing what was happening.
In 1884 the Berlin Conference took place to organize the“Scramble for Africa” and allow King Leopold II his wish to rule the Congo. This meant new boundaries were going to have to be created throughout Africa. The Berlin Conference encouraged Leopold to begin his rule over the Congo, because he had the permission and help from the rest of Europe.
Leopold II exploited the Congo for its natural rubber. He sent armies to steal Congolese women and hold them hostage until their husbands had brought their quota of rubber. They were whipped, killed, and even had hands cut off when their amount was not met. This lead to the realization by others that Leopold was very cruel and greedy and was not a fit ruler.
1908 was the end of King Leopold II's rule and his powers over the Congo were given back to the government of Belgium. The change of power to a improved the treatment of Congolese people. Problems still apparent such as Congo people having no say in government eventually led up to granted sovereignty for the Congo.
In 1884 the Berlin Conference took place to organize the“Scramble for Africa” and allow King Leopold II his wish to rule the Congo. This meant new boundaries were going to have to be created throughout Africa. The Berlin Conference encouraged Leopold to begin his rule over the Congo, because he had the permission and help from the rest of Europe.
Leopold II exploited the Congo for its natural rubber. He sent armies to steal Congolese women and hold them hostage until their husbands had brought their quota of rubber. They were whipped, killed, and even had hands cut off when their amount was not met. This lead to the realization by others that Leopold was very cruel and greedy and was not a fit ruler.
1908 was the end of King Leopold II's rule and his powers over the Congo were given back to the government of Belgium. The change of power to a improved the treatment of Congolese people. Problems still apparent such as Congo people having no say in government eventually led up to granted sovereignty for the Congo.
Pros
Brought new technologies to the region |
Cons
Harsh treatment of rubber workers Death of a majority of the population Cruel Leadership |