This book examines and analyzes the factors essential for the success of the Belgian Revolution of 1830, in which the southern provinces of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands successfully broke away in a nationalist revolt and became the independent Kingdom of Belgium.

The Belgian Revolution of 1830 was a major factor in breaking the post-1815 Vienna Settlement and the international system, an international system which was manipulated by Austria, Russia, and Prussia for suppressing liberal and nationalist movements. Due to the fervor and unity of the Belgian revolutionaries and coordinated diplomacy by the five major European powers of Russia, Prussia, Austria, France and Britain, a new nation with its neutrality guaranteed by all the powers was established: Belgium. Dr. Ridley provides a fascinating account of the revolt and the international events which followed, analyzing the factors essential for the success – or failure – of nationalist insurgences.

This volume is essential and invaluable reading for students and practitioners of international relations, international history and diplomacy.