WGU D266 History Task 3 | Actual verified Study
complete Solutions | A+ Graded | 2026 Updates |
100% correct
A. Growth of European Empires in the 19th Century A1. Reasons for Expansion (Belgium)
One example of European expansion in the 1800s is Belgium’s control of the Congo in Africa.
Economic reason:
King Leopold II wanted access to valuable resources, especially rubber and ivory. These materials
were in high demand in Europe, and controlling the Congo allowed Belgium to profit heavily
from them (Betts, 2017).
Political reason:
Leopold II also wanted Belgium to be seen as a powerful nation. At the time, other European
countries were building empires, and he did not want Belgium to fall behind. Controlling land in
Africa helped increase the country’s status.
A2. How Control Was Maintained (Congo)
Belgium controlled the Congo through force and strict oversight.
Leopold II ruled the Congo as his personal territory, known as the Congo Free State. Control was
enforced by a military group called the Force Publique. Local people were forced to meet rubber
production quotas, and harsh punishments were used if they did not comply. This system kept
control through fear rather than cooperation (Betts, 2017).
B. Decolonization and Nation-States B1. Reasons for Independence (Congo)
People in the Congo pushed for independence for several reasons:
Abuse and exploitation:
complete Solutions | A+ Graded | 2026 Updates |
100% correct
A. Growth of European Empires in the 19th Century A1. Reasons for Expansion (Belgium)
One example of European expansion in the 1800s is Belgium’s control of the Congo in Africa.
Economic reason:
King Leopold II wanted access to valuable resources, especially rubber and ivory. These materials
were in high demand in Europe, and controlling the Congo allowed Belgium to profit heavily
from them (Betts, 2017).
Political reason:
Leopold II also wanted Belgium to be seen as a powerful nation. At the time, other European
countries were building empires, and he did not want Belgium to fall behind. Controlling land in
Africa helped increase the country’s status.
A2. How Control Was Maintained (Congo)
Belgium controlled the Congo through force and strict oversight.
Leopold II ruled the Congo as his personal territory, known as the Congo Free State. Control was
enforced by a military group called the Force Publique. Local people were forced to meet rubber
production quotas, and harsh punishments were used if they did not comply. This system kept
control through fear rather than cooperation (Betts, 2017).
B. Decolonization and Nation-States B1. Reasons for Independence (Congo)
People in the Congo pushed for independence for several reasons:
Abuse and exploitation:
