Leopold III of Belgium

Leopold III was the King of Belgium from 1934 to 1951. During World War II, he faced criticism for remaining in Belgium after the German invasion in 1940, which led to his decision to abdicate in favor of his son, Baudouin, amid internal conflict. His wartime conduct and perceived pro-German sympathies divided Belgian opinion. Post-war, he lived in exile in Switzerland until he was allowed to return, but he largely withdrew from public life. His reign and actions remain topics of historical debate, reflecting the complex circumstances Belgium faced during a turbulent period.