Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1790-1865) was a German prince who became the first King of the Belgians. He was born into the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha family, which was influential in European royal circles. In 1831, he accepted the throne of Belgium after the country gained independence from the Netherlands, helping to establish a constitutional monarchy. Leopold's reign was marked by efforts to stabilize Belgium and promote economic development. He was married to Princess Louise of Orléans, and their union strengthened ties between Belgium and France. Leopold's legacy includes his role in shaping modern Belgium and his descendants, who continue to play significant roles in European royalty.