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King Leopold's Ghost

a Story of Greed, Terror, and Heroism in Colonial Africa
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Apr 09, 2020KellyLatimer rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
A well written and in depth look at the exploitation and terrorism that resulted from the colonial rule of the African region once known as the Congo by the Belgian King Leopold II during the 19th and 20th century. Very insightful and…
Dec 30, 2019pacbox rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
An excellent read about a country and a time in history we know little about. The latter half of the 19th century and early 20th century may haveseen improvements and progress in many European countries and many parts of Americas but the…
Jul 03, 2019harrisaj7 rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
A really great narrative of a time in history little taught in schools. Many people don't learn the devastating impact of colonization on the African continent.
Apr 05, 2019multcolib_susannel rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
Not satisfied with his own kingdom of Belgium, King Leopold wanted a colony like all the other 'big' countries- at any cost, without regard for the people who already lived there.
Nov 27, 2018Justinian537 rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
To add to the reviews above, which more than adequately summarize the essence of this very disturbing, deeply moving and powerfully written book, the following: 1) The 30-year reign of terror that unfolded in the Congo Free State from…
Jun 05, 2017jillmarie58 rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
A powerful book about the misery created to the people of the Congo by a self-centered, dishonest, heartless Belgian king and the amazing pre-internet marketing and publicity efforts by many people across many decades (1880-1910) to raise…
Aug 27, 2016Bookafterbook rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
Frightening. The story that foretells the truth of politics and economics in Africa now.
gjanzen
Apr 26, 2011gjanzen rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
This is the story of Belgium's blood-stained history in central Africa. If you got to Brussels today you will find pillaged Congolese 'loot' from the Leopold era in museums, and no memorials to the millions of Congolese who died under the…
Apr 09, 2011jwarning rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
A strong warning against quiet and subtle nation-building. The author follows Belgium's colonialism into modern day nation-building. The reader cannot help but recognize the political and popular public relations tools used by individuals…
Sep 15, 2010imakio rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
An incredible and disturbing book about the history of the rubber industry in Africa.
Sep 09, 2008
Book club.