Treaty of Berlin

The Treaty of Berlin, signed in 1885, was an international agreement that regulated European colonization and trade in Africa. It aimed to prevent conflicts among European powers by establishing rules for claiming territories. The treaty recognized the Congo Free State, personally ruled by King Leopold II of Belgium, while also promoting free trade in the Congo River basin. It emphasized the importance of ending slavery and missionary efforts in Africa. The treaty reflected the intense competition among European nations during the "Scramble for Africa," leading to significant political and social changes across the continent.