Leopold III was the King of the Belgians from 1934 until his abdication in 1951. He was born on November 3, 1901, and became king following the death of his father, King Albert I. His reign was marked by the challenges of World War II, during which he faced criticism for his decision to surrender to the German forces in 1940. After the war, Leopold III's popularity declined due to his controversial actions during the occupation. In 1950, a referendum was held regarding his return to the throne, leading to his eventual abdication in favor of his son, King Baudouin, in 1951. Leopold III passed away on September 25, 1983.