Brussels, Belgium (CNN) Noah, a slight teenager wearing jeans and sneakers, is dwarfed by the bronze statue of Belgium's King Leopold II astride a horse. In the late 19th century, the country -- then personally owned by Leopold II -- was a place of extraordinary cruelty , where hundreds of thousands of Africans died in slavery. Amputation was frequently used to punish workers nad their families in the Congo Free State, controlled by King Leopold II of Belgium. "We're thinking of making a special showcase with King Leopold II busts and then give a contrasting message at the same time." The Leopold II statue opposite the Royal Palace was covered in anti-racist graffiti earlier this month.

Source: CNN June 25, 2020 08:15 UTC