The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Volume 29: 1578, part III

"The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Volume 29: 1578, part III" by John Lothrop Motley is a historical account written in the mid-19th century, specifically during the early to mid-1800s. This significant work explores the complex political and military landscape of the Netherlands during its struggle for independence from Spanish rule. It delves into the events and key figures that shaped the Dutch Republic's early years, particularly focusing on the relentless and intricate conflicts of the late 16th century. In this volume, Motley provides a detailed narrative centered around Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, and the various power struggles that ensued in the region during 1578. The text illustrates the internal dissensions and external pressures facing the provinces, including anarchy in Ghent and the interactions between various factions, such as Anjou and John Casimir with the Prince of Orange and Catholic forces. Motley presents a multi-faceted picture of the chaos stemming from religious and political discord, highlighting pivotal events like the termination of the Ghent treaty and the establishment of the Union of Utrecht. Overall, this historical account underscores the complexity and richness of the Dutch struggle for autonomy during a pivotal era in European history. (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.