59 pages • 1 hour read
Adam HochschildKing Leopold's Ghost
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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 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.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Colonialism / Postcolonialism
History: European
History: World
Society: Colonialism