On August 25, 1830, a wave of patriotism sparked street demonstrations and riots at the Opera “La Muette de Portici” in Brussels. The protesters targeted government buildings, symbols of Dutch authority, and the properties of affluent Dutch merchants.
In response to the surge of patriotism and riots, King William I dispatched Dutch troops to Brussels to suppress the uprising. Yet, the revolutionaries put up a strong fight, and after several days of intense street battles, the Dutch forces had to retreat. By September 26, the rebels had formed a provisional government.
On October 4, 1830, the provisional government officially declared Belgium’s independence. This declaration, made on behalf of the Belgian people, sought to cut all political ties with the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
In an attempt to regain control over Belgium, King William I launched a military campaign known as the Ten Days’ Campaign. From August 2 to 12, Dutch forces invaded Belgium and achieved several military successes. However, the French intervention on behalf of Belgium forced the Dutch to withdraw and make agreements with Belgium.
After the initial elections to form a National Congress tasked with creating a new constitution for independent Belgium, the major powers of Europe (Britain, France, Austria, Prussia, and Russia) gathered at the London Conference. Their goal was to mediate between Belgium and the Netherlands, aiming to maintain stability in Europe following the turbulent Napoleonic Wars.
On April 19, 1839, the Treaty of London was signed, officially recognizing the agreements made in 1831. Belgium became an acknowledged independent and neutral state, in exchange for giving up certain territories and demilitarizing specific areas.