The author traces the conception and establishment of the central African territory administered under King Leopold II, recounting exploratory missions led by Stanley and outlining the legal and diplomatic framework formed by treaties and the Berlin Conference. He surveys river navigation, transport and infrastructure projects, campaigns against the Arab slave trade and local uprisings, and the organization of colonial administration, the public force, revenue systems, concessions, missions, schools, and scientific and agricultural initiatives. The work collects testimony and responses to international criticism and concludes with a retrospective assessment and forward-looking appraisal.
