"From Florida to Berlin"

1. This chapter focuses on King Leopold's calculated persuasion to get his claim on the Congo recognized by the governments of various countries. The beginning of the chapter begins with a shift in focus, as it follows General Henry Shelton Sanford as he persuades the president, and then Congress to recognize Leopold's Congo state with sly propaganda and crates of oranges from his plantation. Thus, the U.S. becomes the first to acknowledge Leopold's reign. Leopold also gains recognition by the French goverment, capitalizing on the fear of the British somehow obtaining the territory otherwise. A conference addressing the colonization of Africa is held, however, Leopold does not attend, instead opting to disperse his loyal intermediaries throughout the event. As all of these occurences play out, Leopold continues to blur the realities of his plans for the Congo, relying on false promises of philanthropic work to gain recognition from the various nations. Once everything has fallen into place though, he drops the lie and acknowledges his new role as the one ruler of one nation.

2. The most controversial sub-topic that was presented in this chapter comes from the Berlin Conference. Various European nations attend the event, however, “Not a single African” is present.
The Berlin Conference was held for the purpose of dividing Africa among many nations looking to colonize, yet the population that has an established way of life has no say in the matter. This draws attention to the harsh and unjust nature of colonization as a whole and the greed of societies to take control of territory that already belonged to the indigenous people.

3. The Berlin Conference marked a pivotal stage not only for colonialism, but for the continent of Africa.

4. Quiz Questions:

1. Why does Leopold choose America as the first nation to recognize his Congo state?

2. What is the significance of Hochschild noting, “not a single African” attended the conference in Berlin?

3. Why does Leopold change the name of his claimed territory from International African Association to the Congo Free State?

4. The chapter focuses on Leopold’s rise to dominance, yet he does not directly negotiate any of the agreements that propel him to his new powerful position. Why did he choose to act solely through intermediaries?

5. How does Belgium’s small size and lack of previous international recognition work to Leopold’s advantage?