Belgian History

Belgium's history is marked by its strategic location in Europe, influencing its diverse culture and political landscape. It was part of the Roman Empire, later controlled by various European powers like France, Spain, and Austria. In 1830, Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands, establishing itself as a constitutional monarchy. Its industrialization fueled economic growth, but also ethnic tensions between Dutch-speaking Flanders and French-speaking Wallonia. Belgium played a key role in both World Wars, especially as the site of major battles. Today, it is known for its multilingual, multicultural society, with a strong tradition in diplomacy, chocolate, and architecture.