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Leopold II, King of the Belgians
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Leopold II, King of the Belgians
Leopold II, King of the Belgians. The brother of Empress Carlota of Mexico and cousin to Queen Victoria, Leopold II (1835-1909) was the second King of the Belgians. He is best remembered for founding the Congo Free State in 1885 with the intention of exploiting its rubber, ivory and mineral resources, ruling as its sovereign. The local population were subjected to brutal exploitation by their colonial rulers, resulting in atrocities and an estimated 5-15 million deaths. When news of the situation reached the outside world in 1905, there was an outcry, leading to international pressure forcing Leopold to transfer the administration of the Congo to the Belgian state
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Media ID 14879375
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Arms Folded Belgian Congo Exploitation King Leopold Ii Of Belgium King Of The Belgians Leopold Ii Print Collector4
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the stern yet regal presence of Leopold II, King of the Belgians. With his arms folded and a commanding gaze, he exudes authority and power. Leopold II was not only a monarch but also an influential figure in European history. As the brother of Empress Carlota of Mexico and cousin to Queen Victoria, Leopold II had significant connections within royal circles. However, it is for his controversial role as the founder of the Congo Free State that he is most remembered. In 1885, Leopold II established this colony with intentions to exploit its vast resources including rubber, ivory, and minerals. Unfortunately, this led to brutal exploitation by colonial rulers resulting in unimaginable atrocities inflicted upon the local population. It is estimated that between 5-15 million people lost their lives under these oppressive conditions. The international outcry over these human rights abuses eventually forced Leopold II to transfer control of the Congo to the Belgian state in 1908. This marked a turning point in Belgium's colonial history. While this portrait showcases Leopold II's imposing stature as a monarch, it also serves as a reminder of the dark legacy associated with his reign - one marred by exploitation and suffering endured by countless Congolese people during his rule.
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