Leopold II of Belgium

Belgian King and Congo Free State founder

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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