King Leopold was a significant historical figure known for his controversial reign over the Congo Free State during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Under his rule, the region experienced widespread exploitation and human rights abuses, as Leopold pursued economic gain through forced labor and extraction of natural resources. The atrocities committed under his regime, such as the brutal treatment of Congolese workers and the loss of countless lives, sparked international outrage and led to the eventual transfer of control of the Congo to the Belgian state. Leopold’s legacy is one of colonial exploitation and serves as a dark chapter in history.
