How was king Leopold's actions different than other European imperial powers?

King Leopold II of Belgium's actions in the Congo were marked by extreme exploitation and brutality, distinguishing him from other European imperial powers. While many imperialists sought economic gain and territorial expansion, Leopold personally controlled the Congo Free State, enacting a regime that subjected the local population to forced labor, violence, and atrocities in pursuit of rubber and ivory. This level of personal involvement and the sheer scale of human rights abuses were notably more severe than the often more bureaucratically managed colonial systems of other European nations. Leopold's actions led to millions of deaths and have left a lasting impact on the region's history and legacy.