Carl Peters vs Giuseppe Conte

Peters founded the Society for German Colonization in Berlin to promote German colonial expansion. The society organized expeditions to East Africa and signed treaties with local rulers, leading to the establishment of German East Africa.

Peters signed a series of treaties with local chiefs in East Africa, claiming territories for Germany. These treaties, often obtained through deception or coercion, formed the legal basis for the German East Africa colony.

Peters was appointed Reichskommissar (Imperial Commissioner) for German East Africa, giving him administrative authority over the colony. He implemented harsh policies, including forced labor and brutal suppression of rebellions.

Peters was dismissed from the German colonial service after a parliamentary inquiry revealed his brutal treatment of Africans, including executions and floggings. The scandal damaged his reputation and ended his colonial career.

Conte was appointed Prime Minister by President Mattarella, leading a coalition between the Five Star Movement and the League. A law professor with no prior political experience, he became the head of a populist government.

After the League left the coalition, Conte formed a new government with the Five Star Movement and the Democratic Party. This shift moved the government from right-wing populism to a more centrist, pro-European stance.

Conte's government implemented one of Europe's strictest lockdowns to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Italy became the first Western country to impose a nationwide quarantine, with significant economic and social costs.

Conte resigned after the Italia Viva party withdrew support from his coalition, triggering a government crisis. He was succeeded by Mario Draghi, who formed a national unity government.