History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Year's Truce, 1584

"History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Year's Truce--1609" by John Lothrop Motley is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the tumultuous period following the assassination of William the Silent, the leader of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, and delves into the political, social, and religious conflicts that shaped the Netherlands and its relationship with surrounding powers during this era of strife and reformation. The opening of the work sets a dramatic stage by recounting the assassination of William the Silent and the immediate turmoil it caused within the United Provinces. Motley outlines the profound impact of this event on the political landscape, emphasizing the need for unity among the Dutch as they face formidable enemies in Spain and the Catholic Church. The author introduces critical historical elements, such as the struggle between Protestantism and Catholicism, the shift in governance among the provinces, and the dynamic roles of influential characters like the Estates of Holland, the young Maurice of Nassau, and the cunning Spanish rulers. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of a broader narrative that explores the broader implications of the revolt for civil and religious liberty in Europe. (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.