King Leopold's Ghost

King Leopold II developed his dream for colonization at an early age. Before he even took the throne he was on the lookout for unconquered land that could later be in his possession. The king wanted to become rich as a result of his new land through the process of trading. Once King Leopold II set his sights on the Congo, he would not give up until the land was his. He connived, manipulated and conned his way into the land. He did not care who got hurt; he just wanted his dream to be fulfilled. In order to achieve his dream, King Leopold II wanted to be sure that no other country got in his way. Belgium was a small country and Leopold knew that his country posed no threat to others. If he started to conquer the Congo, other countries might follow suit and overcome him.
To sidestep this landmine, "he began planning a step to establish his image as a philanthropist and advance his African ambitions: he would host a conference of explorers and geographers (42-43)." The king would not talk about the profits he planned to make but about putting an end to slave trade and advancing scientifically. The guests were wooed with fancy rooms, fine dining and a persuasive opening speech by King Leopold II. Before his guests departed, they established the International African Association. King Leopold II selflessly offered to have the association's headquarters be in Brussels. He was also elected chairman; his term would last one year. By forming the International African Association, King Leopold II took one step forward. He succeeded in convincing his would be competitors that his intention in the Congo was completely selfless. Although the International African Association met the following year, as per agreement, the committee dissolved afterwards. King Leopold II, however, still used the committee as a smokescreen for what he was doing.
He also hid his true intentions in the Committee for Studies of the Upper Congo. The stockholders of this