What was leopold goal in the Congo free state?

Here are some of the key goals that Leopold pursued:

1. Economic Exploitation: Leopold's primary objective was to extract vast quantities of natural resources, including rubber, ivory, and minerals, from the Congo for his personal enrichment and to satisfy the demands of the European market. He established a ruthless system of forced labor and monopolies, exploiting the resources and labor of the Congolese people.

2. Territorial Expansion: Leopold aimed to expand the territory under his control and increase the size of the Congo Free State. He engaged in aggressive territorial expansion by claiming control over vast regions of the Congo Basin, often by using questionable methods and violent coercion.

3. Personal Prestige and Power: Leopold sought to gain personal prestige and recognition as a powerful and influential figure in Europe and globally. He envisioned the Congo Free State as a testament to his leadership, administrative abilities, and colonial ambition.

4. Imperialistic Ambition: Leopold's actions in the Congo were driven by a sense of imperialistic ambition. He was motivated by the desire to establish and expand his own colonial empire, competing with other European powers that were also vying for dominance in Africa during this period.