Leopold II was born on September 9, 1835 in Brussels, Belgium, as the second child of the reigning Belgian Monarch, Leopold I and his second wife, Louise. His mother tragically passed away when he was just 15 years old, leaving him to be raised by his father. Leopold II's older brother, Louis Philippe, had died the year before Leopold's birth, making him the heir to the throne.
In 1855, Leopold II joined the military and served for a period of time before later becoming a member of the Belgian Senate. His life took a significant turn when his father passed away in December 1865, and he was sworn in as the Second King of the Belgians at the young age of 30. During his reign, Leopold II became known as the Builder King for his ambitious projects that included numerous buildings, urban developments, and public works.
However, Leopold II's legacy is marred by his controversial rule over the Congo Free State, which he established in 1885 as his own personal colony. As the self-made autocratic ruler of the Congo Free State from 1885 to 1908, Leopold II's administration was marked by extreme brutality. Forced labor, kidnapping, and the amputation of hands as punishment for failing to meet rubber quotas were common practices under his rule.
In 1908, due to growing international pressure and public outrage over the atrocities committed in the Congo, the Belgian Government took over the administration of the territory, reconstituting it as the Belgian Congo. Despite his oppressive rule in the Congo, Leopold II implemented some progressive policies in Belgium itself. During his reign, workers were granted the right to form labor unions, free and compulsory primary education was established, and child labor laws were passed.
Leopold II married Marie Henriette of Austria, a cousin of the Emperor of Austria and granddaughter of the late Holy Roman Emperor Leopold II. Together, they had three daughters and one son, but tragically, their son passed away from pneumonia at the age of nine. Leopold II was known to have numerous mistresses, and he and his wife eventually separated in 1895.
In his personal life, Leopold II's family connections were extensive. His sister, Charlotte, became the Empress Carlota of Mexico. He also had a close relationship with Queen Victoria of Britain, who was his first cousin.
Leopold II passed away on December 17, 1909, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to be debated to this day. While he is remembered for his ambitious building projects and progressive reforms in Belgium, his ruthless rule in the Congo Free State tarnished his reputation as a monarch.