Rise of the Dutch Republic

by John Lothrop Motley, D.C.L., LL.D.

New York
Harper & Brothers, Publishers
1855

American Christians have always been inspired by the history of their country. The rise of the American republic is indeed a great testimony to the Lord's providence, working on behalf of His people. But two centuries earlier, an even greater struggle was breaking out on the other side of the Atlantic, and another Christian people was fighting for its very existence against a powerful tyrant. And their trials and suffering far surpassed what our American forefathers endured. This is the story of the rise of the Dutch Republic. 

When King Phillip II of Spain took the throne, it marked the beginning of a long period of persecution and suffering for the freedom-loving people of the "Low Countries" on the western coast of Europe. Phillip enforced a merciless Inquisition, and any limited freedoms the Netherlanders may have retained under his father, Emperor Charles V, were abolished. The Dutch people languished under the oppressive rule of five successive Spanish administrators, during which they died by the hundreds of thousands in executions, in massacres, and in battle. 

They would wage a desperate war for eighty years before gaining permanent independence. And God would raise up a man to become their champion, a man who would sacrifice his fortune, his health, and ultimately his life for the deliverance of the common people. William of the House of Orange, renowned in history as William the Silent, was a rare historical figure of the sixteenth century, standing firm for complete religious liberty, in an age of bigotry and intolerance among Catholics and Protestants alike. He led his countrymen through overwhelming sorrow and tragedy, as the Dutch provinces united to lay the foundation for their great future republic. Known as the "Father of his country" and the "Tranquil Prince" for his unwavering fortitude and peace of mind through never-ending adversity, he faithfully persevered, denying himself to ease the suffering of others, until he fell under the assassin's bullet, and the Lord called him home to glory. His story and the story of his country are an enduring testimony to the faithfulness of our gracious God as He sustains His people throughout all their afflictions. 

Contents
Preface
Historical Introduction
Part 1    Philip II in the Netherlands
Part 2    Administration of the Duchess Margaret
    Chapters 1-4
    Chapters 5-7
    Chapters 8-10
Part 3    Alva
    Chapters 1-3
    Chapters 4-6
    Chapters 7-9
Part 4    Administration of the Grand Commander
    Chapters 1-3
    Chapters 4-5
Part 5    Don John of Austria
    Chapters 1-3
    Chapters 4-5
Part 6    Alexander of Parma
    Chapters 1-2
    Chapters 3-4
    Chapters 5-7