Belgian Revolution

The Belgian Revolution was a conflict in the United Kingdom of the Netherlands that began with a riot in Brussels in August 1830 and eventually led to the establishment of an independent, Catholic and neutral Belgium (William I, king of the Netherlands, would refuse to recognize a Belgian state until 1839, when he had to yield under pressure by the Treaty of London).

The opera riot

Catholic partisans watched with excitement the unfolding of the July Revolution in France, details of which were swiftly reported in the newspapers. The opening phase was a riot the night of August 25, 1830, following a performance of Daniel Auber's sentimental and patriotic opera La Muette de Portici, a tale suited to fire National Romanticism, for it was set against Masaniello's uprising against the Spanish masters of Naples in the 17th century. The duet, "Amour sacré de la patrie," sung by Adolphe Nourrit, engendered a riot that became the signal for the revolution. The crowd poured into the streets after the performance, shouting patriotic slogans, and swiftly took possession of the hotel de ville and other government buildings.

Related Topics:
July Revolution - August 25 - Daniel Auber - La Muette de Portici - National Romanticism

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The affable and moderate Crown Prince William, who represented the monarchy at Brussels, was convinced by the Estates-General on September 1 that the administrative separation of north and south was the only viable solution to the crisis. His father rejected the terms of accommodation that he proposed.

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King William I of the Netherlands attempted to restore the establishment order by force, but the royal army under Prince Frederick was unable to retake Brussels in bloody street fighting, September 23 to 26. The following day a provisional government was declared in Brussels; a declaration of independence followed on the 4th. The following month a National Congress assembled in Brussels and on February 7, 1831, the Belgian constitution was proclaimed.

Related Topics:
William I of the Netherlands - Brussels - February 7 - 1831

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