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Leopold II of Belgium (1835-1909). Engraving. Colored
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Leopold II of Belgium (1835-1909). Engraving. Colored
Leopold II of Belgium (1835-1909). King of the Belgians. Engraving. Colored
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14336542
© Thaliastock / Mary Evans
Bearded Belgian Coburg Congo Founder Free Gotha Leopold Monarch Monarchy Saxe Saxe Coburg
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving showcases Leopold II of Belgium (1835-1909), the King of the Belgians during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The portrait, rendered in vibrant colors, portrays Leopold II in the prime of his life, with a full beard and an intense, focused expression. Born into the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Leopold ascended to the Belgian throne in 1865 following the abdication of his uncle, Leopold I. Leopold II is most famously known for his role in the establishment of the Free State of the Congo, a vast territory in Central Africa that he personally ruled as its sovereign from 1885 until his death in 1909. The Free State of the Congo was initially established as a personal venture, with Leopold II aiming to exploit its natural resources, particularly rubber, for personal gain. This period is marked by the brutal exploitation of the Congolese people, with reports of widespread violence, forced labor, and the infamous "rubber campaigns." Despite the controversial nature of his rule in the Congo, Leopold II remains an intriguing figure in Belgian and European history. His reign saw significant advancements in infrastructure development, with the construction of roads, railways, and schools. The King's patronage of the arts and sciences also left a lasting impact on the country. This engraving serves as a testament to the complex legacy of a monarch who, while remembered for his questionable actions in Africa, also left an indelible mark on the history of Belgium.
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