The story of the Congo Free State : $b Social, political, and economic aspects of the Belgian system of government in Central Africa

"The Story of the Congo Free State: Social, Political, and Economic Aspects of the Belgian System of Government in Central Africa" by Henry Wellington Wack is a historical examination of the Congo Free State in the early 1900s, offering what the writer puts forth as an even-handed account of its setting up and running. The book examines the governing practices of King Leopold II and the reasons behind it, while also tackling the arguments and disapproval that occurred. Wack explains his reasons for creating this account, mentioning his desire to provide a true and well-rounded view of the Congo Free State amid increasing disapproval of King Leopold II's power. He tells of noticing an established movement opposing the Congo government while in the UK and the US, which made him want to challenge the poor views of the state. To authenticate his account, he gained access to archival papers from King Leopold's control, hoping to clarify the good motives connected to the Congo Free State's beginning. This introduction sets the stage for a detailed look at the complexities surrounding how the area was run, caught up in both charitable desires and goals of gaining land.