21 July: Belgium National Day and its significance

Liaquat Ali

Islamabad: Belgium National Day, also known as the Belgian National Day or the National Day of Belgium, is a significant public holiday celebrated annually on 21 July.

It commemorates two important events in Belgian history and holds great significance for the country and its people.

In the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, Belgium became part of the United Netherlands. After a period of growing unrest, the Belgian Revolution forced Dutch forces out of the country between August and October 1830. By November, the different revolutionary factions had coalesced around the idea of national independence and began drafting a constitution for an independent Belgian state.

It was decided that it would become a constitutional and popular monarchy, reflecting the romantic nationalism popular at the time. Searching for a monarch, the revolutionaries decided on Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha who was a German aristocrat popular in the United Kingdom.

Leopold arrived in Brussels in early July 1831 and, on 21 July, swore allegiance to the constitution, becoming the country’s first monarch. 21 July 1831 is thus considered to mark the start of the modern Kingdom of Belgium.

Belgium National Day is a moment of national pride and unity for the Belgian people. It serves as a reminder of the country’s history, struggles for independence, and its evolution as a sovereign nation.

The day fosters a sense of belonging and patriotism among Belgians and strengthens their national identity.

On Belgium National Day, various events and festivities take place throughout the country.