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59 pages 1 hour read

King Leopold's Ghost

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Adam Hochschild

King Leopold's Ghost

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

366

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Congo • Late 19th century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild is a historical account detailing King Leopold II of Belgium's exploitation and brutal rule of the Congo from 1895 to 1908, alongside the resistance efforts by figures like Edmund Morel. The book covers the period before Leopold gained control of the Congo, the atrocities committed during his rule, and the subsequent transfer of control to the Belgian government, while also examining the broader impacts of European imperialism in Africa. The story includes accounts of violence and atrocities inflicted on the people of the Congo.

Informative

Dark

Unnerving

Mysterious

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

66,821 ratings

82%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild is widely praised for its gripping narrative and thorough research, illuminating the brutal exploitation in the Congo Free State. Hochschild's storytelling captivates but some critics feel his emotional tone overshadows historical analysis. Overall, the book is both an informative and compelling read, offering crucial insights into colonial atrocities.

Who should read this

Who Should Read King Leopold's Ghost?

Readers who appreciate King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild will likely have a keen interest in history, human rights, and imperialism. Similar to fans of Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond or The Scramble for Africa by Thomas Pakenham, they enjoy deeply researched, narrative-driven explorations of past injustices.

4.4

66,821 ratings

82%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

366

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Congo • Late 19th century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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