Leopold I of Belgium

Leopold I of Belgium (1790–1865) was the first King of the Belgians, ruling from 1831 to 1865. Originally a prince of the German Duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, he became Belgium’s monarch after the country gained independence from the Netherlands. Leopold played a key role in establishing Belgium’s sovereignty, government, and military. He was known for supporting the growth of industry and infrastructure, helping modernize the nation. His reign laid the foundation for Belgium’s future stability and development as an independent, constitutional monarchy.