Belgian Congo

Definition

The Belgian Congo was a large area in Central Africa that was ruled by Belgium from 1908 to 1960. It was known for its brutal exploitation of the local population and natural resources.

Related terms

Colonialism: This is a system where one country dominates and exploits another country or territory for its own benefit.

Leopold II of Belgium: He was the King of Belgium who initially established personal control over Congo before it became a colony of Belgium.

Decolonization: This refers to the process by which colonies gain their independence from colonial powers. In this case, it would refer to how Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960.