Alexandre Gendebien, a name whispered with respect and admiration in the halls of Belgian history, stands proudly before you. This statue, crafted from marble by Charles Van der Stappen, captures the unwavering spirit of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny. The Alexandre Gendebien statue was originally unveiled in 1874, a testament to his lasting impact on Belgian society. Born in Mons in 1789, Gendebien was more than just a politician. He was a lawyer, a revolutionary, and a fierce advocate for Belgian independence. He began his career as a lawyer in Brussels, defending political activists against the oppressive regime of William I of the Netherlands. As tensions rose between the north and south, Gendebien emerged as a key figure in the Belgian Revolution of 1830.
The Alexandre Gendebien statue reminds us of his crucial role in the revolution. He served in the provisional government, advocating for the separation from the Netherlands. He even travelled to France, seeking support and exploring the possibility of a union with their southern neighbor. Though a republican at heart, Gendebien pragmatically voted for a monarchy, understanding it was the most viable path to independence. He served as Minister of Justice under the regency of Surlet de Chokier. He was instrumental in establishing the Association nationale belge, a group dedicated to influencing international negotiations and securing Belgium’s sovereignty.
Gendebien’s commitment to Belgium extended beyond political maneuvering. He even served as a volunteer during the Ten Days’ Campaign, a brief but crucial military conflict in 1831. In the newly formed Belgian parliament, Gendebien passionately opposed concessions to the Netherlands, particularly the ceding of Limburg and Luxembourg. He vehemently fought against the Treaty of the XXIV Articles. This treaty solidified the loss of these territories. His famous cry of “No, three hundred and eighty thousand times no, for the 380,000 Belgians you are sacrificing to fear” resonated throughout the chamber. His principled stand ultimately led to his resignation from parliament in 1839. Though his political career ended, Gendebien’s legacy lived on. He continued to serve as a city councilor in Brussels and bâtonnier of the order of lawyers.
The Alexandre Gendebien statue, now located in Square Frère-Orban, serves as a permanent reminder of his contributions to Belgian independence and his unwavering commitment to justice. He dedicated his life to building a better future for his nation. He even served his community as a city council member in Brussels. His descendants continued his legacy of public service, remaining active in politics even into the 21st century. As you gaze upon the Alexandre Gendebien statue, remember the man it represents: a staunch defender of liberty and a key architect of modern Belgium.