King Leopold I was the first King of the Belgians, reigning from 1831 until his death in 1865. He was born on December 16, 1790, in Coburg, Germany, and became king after Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands. Leopold played a crucial role in establishing the Belgian monarchy and promoting national unity. During his reign, Leopold I focused on modernizing Belgium's economy and infrastructure. He encouraged industrial development and supported the establishment of railways and banks. His leadership helped shape Belgium into a stable and prosperous nation, laying the groundwork for future growth and development in the country.