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In the vast narrative of colonial exploitation, few events are as brutal as the reign of King Leopold II of Belgium over the Congo Free State, now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, Leopold II orchestrated a regime of terror and exploitation, leading to the deaths of up to 17 million Congolese people. This dark period was marked by extreme brutality, with the local population forced into labor to extract rubber, diamonds, and gold. Failure to meet quotas often resulted in horrific punishments, including mutilation and death.
Despite the magnitude of these atrocities, Hollywood has largely remained silent. Films often shape our understanding of history, yet this significant chapter remains largely untold in mainstream cinema. This omission raises questions about the narratives we choose to remember and those we ignore. Why is there reluctance to confront such a harrowing part of colonial history? Is it the complexity of the narrative, the geographical and cultural distance, or something more discomforting about our selective memory in the West?
The silence is conspicuous, especially considering Hollywood’s role in crafting narratives that confront other historical injustices. As we continue to advocate for more diverse and inclusive historical representations, the story of the Congo under King Leopold II demands attention. It’s time for Hollywood to take up the mantle and bring this critical story to the global audience, ensuring that the victims of these colonial crimes are remembered, and such histories are not repeated.