evidence: - Berlin Conference of 1884-1885: During the late 19th century, European powers held the Berlin Conference to formalize the division of Africa into territories for colonization. The Congo River basin, rich in natural resources and strategically located, became a point of interest for multiple colonial powers. [...] - Belgian Congo (now Democratic Republic of the Congo): The area on the south side of the Congo River was claimed by Belgium. This territory became known as the Congo Free State, a personal property of King Leopold II of Belgium, and later became the Belgian Congo. It eventually became the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with its capital in Kinshasa. [...] Also see: Why are Brazzaville & Kinshasa So Close Together?