Leopold II was the King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. He is best known for his personal rule over the Congo Free State, which he controlled from 1885 to 1908. During this time, he exploited the region for its natural resources, particularly rubber, leading to severe human rights abuses and a significant decline in the local population. His actions in the Congo drew international criticism and led to reforms. In 1908, the Belgian government took control of the Congo Free State, renaming it the Belgian Congo. Leopold II's legacy remains controversial due to the impact of his policies on the Congolese people and the region's history.