Le journal des voyages au pays du caoutchouc rouge

The study of literature written for the working classes highlights the common stereotypes existing at a given point in time, notably on African populations. On the basis of texts published between 1904 and 1908 in "Le Journal des Voyages", it can be proven to what extent the image imposed of the Congolese is generally awful or ridiculous. This period corresponds to the time when accusations were made by Great Britain on the way in which the collection of rubber was carried out for Leopold II's officials. "Le Journal" adopts an ambiguous attitude : the treatment of information is sensational (the public's taste for horrible details is flattered) and their comments are nuanced (it does not aim to contribute to an overall criticism of colonial activities).