Colonization by International Association of the Congo

On November 17, 1879, the International Association of the Congo, founded by King Leopold II of Belgium, initiated the colonization of the Congo region. This event marked the onset of a dark chapter in the history of the Congo, characterized by severe exploitation and brutality. Leopold's administration was primarily focused on extracting valuable resources, particularly rubber and ivory, which were in high demand in Europe. The methods employed to achieve these goals were horrific, involving forced labor, violence, and widespread human rights abuses. The Congolese population suffered immensely during this period, with estimates of millions of lives lost due to the harsh conditions imposed by the colonial regime. The international community eventually took notice of these atrocities, leading to significant pressure on Leopold's administration. This outcry culminated in the transfer of control from Leopold to the Belgian government in 1908, resulting in the establishment of the Belgian Congo. This transition marked a shift in governance but did not immediately alleviate the suffering of the Congolese people, as exploitation continued under Belgian rule until the country gained independence in 1960. The legacy of this colonization period remains a critical aspect of Congo's history, influencing its socio-political landscape to this day.