Arthur Conan Doyle's The Crime of the Congo is a historical account written in the early 20th century, vehemently criticizing the atrocities committed in the Congo Free State under the rule of King Leopold II of Belgium. The book exposes the exploitation and immense suffering inflicted on the native population, masked under the guise of humanitarian efforts, and stands as a significant historical document revealing the harsh realities of colonial exploitation.
In the opening preface, Doyle delivers a passionate argument, describing the events in the Congo as unparalleled in history for their combination of plunder and cruelty. He condemns the acts as driven by foul commercial motives disguised as philanthropy. Drawing on reports from British consuls, missionaries, and authors, Doyle vividly details horrific practices such as forced labor and extreme violence against the Congolese people, emphasizing the urgent need for international intervention.
This introduction sets the tone for a scathing critique of colonialism, offering a grim overview of the shared responsibility of those complicit in maintaining the exploitative regime in the Congo.

PREFACE
INTRODUCTION
I. HOW THE CONGO FREE STATE CAME TO BE FOUNDED
II. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONGO STATE
III. THE WORKING OF THE SYSTEM
IV. FIRST FRUITS OF THE SYSTEM
V. FURTHER FRUITS OF THE SYSTEM
VI. VOICES FROM THE DARKNESS
VII. CONSUL ROGER CASEMENT’S REPORT
VIII. KING LEOPOLD’S COMMISSION AND ITS REPORT
IX. THE CONGO AFTER THE COMMISSION
X. SOME CATHOLIC TESTIMONY AS TO THE CONGO
XI. THE EVIDENCE UP TO DATE
XII. THE POLITICAL SITUATION
XIII. SOME CONGOLESE APOLOGIES
XIV. SOLUTIONS
APPENDIX