Editing Essen, Belgium (section)

==== Belgian Revolution ====
After the [[defeat of Napoleon in 1815]], Essen became part of the [[United Kingdom of the Netherlands]], under the rule of [[William I of Orange-Nassau]]. However, when the [[Southern Netherlands]] seceded to form present-day Belgium in 1830, Essen's geopolitical status shifted, turning it into a border town. This transition was marked by significant military conflict, most notably the Battle of Essen on 21 November 1830, during the [[Belgian War of Independence]]. In the years following the secession, Walloon soldiers were stationed to guard the newly established border. Tensions escalated further on 20 November 1831, when these soldiers moved to [[Roosendaal]], inciting a strong Dutch military response the following day. During a high mass, 4,000 Dutch soldiers entered and searched Essen, resulting in the death of five soldiers and two villagers. This event is known as the Battle of the Hill.