Alfons K. L. Thijs (1944–2014) was a Belgian historian of the early-modern Low Countries.

His earlier work focused on social and economic history, his later work on cultural and religious history, particularly popular devotional ephemera such as prayer cards.

After studying in Antwerp as an undergraduate he went to Ghent University as a graduate student, obtaining his licentiate degree and doctorate there under the supervision of Wilfrid Brulez.

[1] From 1971 to 2004 he was a member of the academic staff of the University of Antwerp, initially as an assistant (1971-1978), then lecturer (1978-1988), and finally professor (1988 onwards).

[2] From 1982 to 1991 he served as director of the Centrum voor Bedrijfsgeschiedenis (Centre for Business History).