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Belgians celebrate freedom, independence

  • Published
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Belgians all around the world celebrate their nation's independence known as "National Day" on July 21 kicking off with a thanksgiving mass for the royal family.

The celebrations draw hundreds of thousands to Brussels, the nation's capital, and will feature royal appearances among the crowds, a military parade and fireworks.

Belgians celebrate their freedom from domination of Netherland in 1931. The day commemorates the formal establishment of the independent kingdom and the crowning of Leopold I of Saxe-Coburg. Leopold I was appointed king of the Belgians on his willingness to support the constitution drawn up by the National Congress.

After attaining their independence and neutrality by the leading European powers, Belgium was the first country in Europe to enjoy rapid economic growth through industrialization. The country further led the continent in the expansion of railways, engineering and coal mining.