Leopold II's Vision for the Congo

Leopold II of Belgium, driven by his desire for wealth, sets his sights on establishing a colony in Africa. He sends explorers, including Henry Morton Stanley, to the Congo to secure treaties and claim the land. Leopold manipulates public opinion through showy expeditions and gains recognition from the US President, Chester A. Arthur. He convinces Europe that the Congo Free State will be a prosperous nation and promises a free trade zone. Ultimately, Leopold II's goal is to exploit the Congo's vast resources, particularly rubber, and earn massive profits.