Belgium was founded as an independent state in 1830 , after the Belgian Revolution. It was then recognized internationally in 1831 and later had its borders fixed by the Treaty of London in 1839.

Quick answer

  • 1830 : independence declared.
  • 1831 : international recognition and first king.
  • 1839 : final legal settlement of borders.

Why the date can vary

Some sources call 1830 Belgium’s founding date because that is when independence was declared. Others point to 1831 because that is when Belgium became formally recognized as an independent state with a monarch.

So the simplest answer is: Belgium “started” in 1830.