Leopold I of Belgium was the first King of the Belgians, reigning from 1831 until his death in 1865. He was born on December 16, 1790, in Brussels, and became king after Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830. Leopold played a crucial role in establishing the new nation and promoting its stability. During his reign, Leopold I focused on modernizing Belgium's economy and infrastructure. He encouraged industrial development and supported the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. His leadership helped solidify Belgium's identity and laid the groundwork for its future as a prosperous nation in Europe.