Belgian Colonial History

Belgian colonial history is primarily marked by its control over the Congo Free State from 1885 to 1908 and then the Belgian Congo until 1960. King Leopold II personally owned the Congo, exploiting its resources and people, leading to severe human rights abuses and millions of deaths. After international pressure, Belgium took over formally in 1908, implementing more structured administration but still prioritizing resource extraction. Independence in 1960 was rushed, leading to political instability and conflict. Belgium's colonial legacy is a complex mix of exploitation, cultural impacts, and ongoing discussions about reparations and historical responsibility.