KSVA

Compare King Leopold II of Belgium and Adolf Hitler as two individuals responsible for human rights abuses and atrocities; it’s important to remember that while both individuals may have committed these actions in equal measure, their scale and nature differ significantly.

 King Leopold II was the sole owner and ruler of what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo from 1885-1908. As sole owner, he exploited its natural resources, particularly rubber, leading to forced labor, harsh working conditions, and widespread exploitation amongst the Congolese population

Leopold’s reign in the Congo caused significant loss of life. Estimations indicate that millions of Congolese died due to forced labor, famine, diseases, and violence during his rule.

Leopold was motivated primarily by economic gain for personal gain as well as territorial control.

Hitler was driven by an ideology of nationalism, racial purity and Aryan supremacy that resulted in aggressive expansionist policies as well as systematic persecution against specific groups.

While comparisons between historical figures can be made, each should be assessed within their unique circumstances.

No matter the precise figure, it is widely recognized that King Leopold II’s policies and exploitation of the Congo caused widespread loss of life and incredible suffering among the Congolese population. King Leopold II murdered 10 to 20 million Africans compared to the 6 million Jews that Hitler murdered.  Why is it that we all know Hitler was the most evil man and no mention of King Leopold II?