Leopold III of the Belgians

Leopold III was King of the Belgians from 1934 to 1951. He served as a front-line soldier in World War I and came to the throne after the tragic death of his father in a rock climbing accident. During World War II he led the Belgian army, resisting the Germans for 18 days (longer than any other of the low countries) before surrendering; for which he was criticized by the Allies. Leopold III was also castigated for remaining in Belgium with his people during the German occupation. He went to Switzerland after the Axis defeat and finally, because of deep political divisions at home, he decided to abdicate in 1951 in favor of his son King Baudouin. He died in 1983.