Secret Colonization

“…the International Society for the Suppression of Savage Customs…” (pg. 61)

During the late 19th century, Belgium was particularly interested in colonizing and introducing aspects of European civilization into the Congo. King Leopold II of Belgium was at the helm of this colonization, but following multiple unsuccessful schemes to take over the territory, he organized secret holding companies,disguised as humanitarian organizations, to ensure his rule over the land. Much like the nonfictional International African Association, the organization that Kurtz is responsible for is a front that enables the Company to benefit without being scrutinized. Conrad created this fictional organization to provide realism to the plot. During this time period, so many organizations with "humanitarian" prospects were being established that another, like the one in this book, probably wouldn't have phased anyone.

"The International African Association." Congo Free State. Web. 12 Aug. 2009. http://congostate.blogspot.com/2006/01/international-african-association.html