Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza vs Willem Janszoon

Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza led an expedition to explore the Congo River basin, traveling from the coast into the interior. He established friendly relations with local chiefs, particularly the Teke people, and claimed territories for France without resorting to military force.

De Brazza signed a treaty with King Makoko of the Teke people, establishing a French protectorate over the north bank of the Congo River. He founded the settlement of Brazzaville, which became the capital of French Congo. This was achieved without bloodshed, contrasting with Belgian King Leopold II's brutal methods.

De Brazza negotiated a treaty with King Makoko of the Teke people, granting France control over the territory that became the French Congo. The treaty was notable for being voluntary and non-coercive, a rare example of peaceful colonial expansion in Africa.

De Brazza was appointed Commissioner-General of the French Congo, overseeing the administration of the colony. He implemented policies that respected local customs and opposed the use of forced labor, but his humane approach was later undermined by concession companies that exploited the region.

De Brazza was sent by the French government to investigate reports of atrocities committed by concession companies in the French Congo. His report documented widespread abuses, including forced labor and violence. However, the French government suppressed the report, and de Brazza died shortly after returning.

Janszoon landed on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, Australia. He charted about 350 km of coastline, becoming the first recorded European to set foot on the Australian continent.

Janszoon sailed along the southern coast of New Guinea, mapping parts of the island. He encountered hostile local populations and did not establish any settlements.

Janszoon charted parts of the Gulf of Carpentaria, including the coast of what is now Queensland. His maps provided the first European knowledge of northern Australia.