6. Belgium’s Atrocities in the Congo Free State
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Congo Free State was ruled as the personal property of King Leopold II of Belgium. Under his regime, Congolese people endured forced labor, horrific violence, and systematic mutilation as Europeans extracted rubber and ivory. It’s estimated that millions perished due to brutality, starvation, and disease. Despite its scale, this episode of colonial exploitation is rarely acknowledged in European history classrooms, remaining a hidden stain on Belgium’s legacy. Read more.
