Pieter Daens was a Belgian priest and social reformer born in 1834. He is best known for his efforts to improve the living and working conditions of the poor in the industrial town of Alost. Daens advocated for workers' rights and social justice during a time of rapid industrialization in Belgium. His activism led to the founding of the Christian Social Party, which aimed to address the needs of the working class. Daens' life and work have been depicted in various forms of media, including the film "Daens," highlighting his commitment to social change and the struggles faced by the labor force.