The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Volume 09: 1564-65

"The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Volume 09: 1564-65" by John Lothrop Motley is a historical account written during the mid-19th century. This volume delves into a critical period in the history of the Netherlands, focusing on the political and social turmoil stemming from the oppressive policies of Philip II of Spain and the resulting tensions with the Protestant population and political leaders, particularly around figures like William of Orange and Count Egmont. At the start of this volume, the narrative sets the stage for the desperate struggle between the nobles of the Netherlands and the absolute rule of Philip II. The opening describes the return of influential seigniors to the state council amidst rampant corruption and a push for reform led by the Prince of Orange, who finds himself facing not only the royal authorities but also the grim reality of increasing persecution and brutal acts against Protestants. The plight of the people under the inquisitorial regime intensifies, marked by violent executions and a growing discontent that looms over the Netherlands, foreshadowing a potential rebellion against the oppressive stance of the Crown. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Lothrop Motley was an American author and diplomat. As a popular historian, he is best known for his works on the Netherlands, the three volume work The Rise of the Dutch Republic and four volume History of the United Netherlands. As United States Minister to Austria in the service of the Abraham Lincoln administration, Motley helped to prevent European intervention on the side of the Confederates in the American Civil War. He later served as Minister to the United Kingdom during the Ulysses S. Grant administration.