Leopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835
190 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909
115 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Belgium
Links & References
Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.
Created the Congo Free State in 1885
Exploited rubber and ivory resources
Facilitated infrastructure projects in Congo
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