Latest / The Rise of Colonialism: How Europe Divided the World — Fexingo History
The Berlin Conference: How Lines Divided Africa
In this episode, we explore the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, where European powers gathered to carve up the African continent without inviting a single African leader. We examine the role of Otto von Bismarck in hosting the gathering and how King Leopold II of Belgium manipulated the proceedings to secure the Congo Free State for his personal profit. You will learn about the principle of effective occupation, which forced Europeans to demonstrate actual control over territory rather than just planting flags, and how this legal framework accelerated the scramble for Africa. The conversation…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.