History of the Congo Free State By GantRoberson Dec 17, 1865 Leopold II becomes king of Belgium Period: Dec 17, 1865 to Dec 17, 1909 King Leopold's Reign Sep 20, 1876 International African Society founded Aug 11, 1879 Henry Morton Stanley begins exploration of the Congo on behalf of King Leopold Jun 25, 1884 Henry Morton Stanley ends his exploration of the Congo Nov 15, 1884 Berlin Conference begins Feb 26, 1885 Berlin Conference ends Period: Feb 26, 1885 to Nov 15, 1908 Congo Free State Jan 1, 1903 Peak year for rubber revenue from the Congo Mar 4, 1904 Congo Reform Association founded May 10, 1904 Henry Morton Stanley dies May 17, 1904 Casement Report is released Nov 15, 1908 Belgian parliament takes over administration of the Congo Period: Nov 15, 1908 to Jun 30, 1960 Belgian Congo Dec 17, 1909 King Leopold dies Jun 16, 1913 The Congo Reform Association dissolves itself Jun 20, 1960 The Congo gains independence from Belgium.