King Leopold II & Colonialism in the Congo Documentary
Synopsis
An estimated 10 million people died under King Leopold II's rule in the Congo due to murder, starvation, disease, and reduced birth rates.
Synopsis
King Leopold II of Belgium, born in 1835, played a significant role in the colonial exploitation of the Congo. The documentary details his reign from 1885 to 1908, during which an estimated 10 million Congolese people died due to murder, starvation, and disease. Historian Adam Hochschild describes this period as marked by economic exploitation rather than ethnic cleansing. The film also addresses Leopold's warnings about Belgium's vulnerability to invasion, which proved accurate during World War I.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See how Leopold II's reign impacted the Congo's population.
- Find out about Leopold's marriage to Princess Louise d’Orléans.
- Meet historian Adam Hochschild discussing Leopold's legacy.
Did You Know
- King Leopold II was born on April 9, 1835, in Brussels.
- Leopold I, his father, served as a lieutenant general in the Russian army during the Napoleonic Wars.
- Approximately 10 million people died under Leopold's rule in the Congo.
- Leopold was sworn in as King of the Belgians on July 21, 1831.
- The Treaty of London in 1839 guaranteed Belgian independence and neutrality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was King Leopold II of Belgium born?
King Leopold II of Belgium was born on the 9th of April 1835 in Brussels.
How many children did Leopold I and Princess Louise d’Orléans have?
Leopold I and Princess Louise d’Orléans had four children together.
What was the estimated death toll during Leopold II's rule in the Congo?
Historian Adam Hochschild estimates that around 10 million people perished under Leopold II's rule in the Congo.
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