July 23
King Leopold’s Ghost
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I did not know the history of King Leopold II of Belgium and the Belgian Congo until I read this book. This is history that will shock you, not only because of the scope and tragedy of it, but also because you may never have learned anything about it. It is a fascinating look at Colonial Africa; monarchy at the height of its excess and before its almost total collapse; and the individuals (heroes, villains and victims) that populated the landscape.
I’ve never heard of this story, but it sounds fascinating! I might have to look around for it!