Behind the Bastards

Part One: King Leopold II: The First Modern Bastard

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Jun 12, 2018
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INSIGHT

Modern Shitty Leader

  • King Leopold II is considered the first truly "shitty" modern world leader, similar to Putin or Trump.
  • He pioneered exploiting millions for personal gain, distinguishing him from earlier conquerors like Genghis Khan.
ANECDOTE

Belgium's First King

  • Leopold II's father, Leopold I, was Belgium's first king, appointed after the Napoleonic wars.
  • Belgium became a buffer state between France and Germany, and Leopold I was a German prince without a kingdom.
ANECDOTE

A Royal Upbringing

  • Leopold II and his siblings were raised without personal opinions, prioritizing duty.
  • His father aimed to mold them into ideal kings, suppressing individuality.
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