King Leopold's elephant expedition: a story of colonialism in Congo
History Extra podcast
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Colonial Expeditions and Elephants
This chapter examines the complexities of a colonial expedition led by Frederick Carter, who was chosen for his skills as an Arabic speaker and negotiator. It details the challenges faced during the journey, the impact on local tribes, and the suffering of the elephants involved, highlighting the dissonance between the expedition’s grand narrative and the harsh realities. The chapter further explores the lasting legacy of King Leopold's actions in Congo and the broader implications of colonialism on wildlife and local cultures.
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