When the Belgian state became de facto independent from the Netherlands in 1830, it initially also encompassed eastern Limburg (except for Dutch-occupied Maastricht) and eastern Luxembourg (except for Prussian-occupied Luxembourg City). The young state also claimed North Brabant and Zeelandic Flanders, but was unable to conquer this territory. In 1839, Belgium's borders were officially recognised, but it had to give up eastern Limburg and Luxembourg. Afterwards, some Belgians fought to retake these territories. Even King Leopold II made plans to invade the north.[6]
The Great War
After World War I, Belgian irredentism became relevant again as the claims were seen as reparation. The Belgians viewed the Netherlands' actions during this war as collaboration, and because of this, the Belgian state claimed Zeelandic Flanders and Dutch Limburg once again. After negotiations, Belgium only gained the German territory of Eupen-Malmedy through the Treaty of Versailles.[2] This could be seen as the first and only success the Belgian irredentists achieved on the European continent.
In 1919, Luxembourg held a referendum which could've led to a Belgian on the throne, but this was rejected by its population.[7] However, Belgium and Luxembourg did create an Economic Union shortly afterwards, which led to greater economic collaboration.
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