The Dutch Revolt

The long struggle of the Low Countries against Habsburg Spain, which produced the independent Dutch Republic.

Background

The provinces of the Low Countries belonged to the Spanish Habsburg crown under Philip II. Nobles and townspeople resented new taxes and the loss of local privileges, while the persecution of Protestants deepened the conflict. In 1566 waves of image-breaking spread across the provinces, and Spain responded with force.

Course of events

War began in earnest in 1568 under William of Orange. Seven northern provinces joined in the Union of Utrecht in 1579 and renounced Philip II in the Act of Abjuration of 1581. After decades of fighting and the Twelve Years' Truce from 1609, Spain formally recognised Dutch independence in the Peace of Münster in 1648.

Legacy

The new Dutch Republic became a leading commercial power with a relatively tolerant religious climate. Its Golden Age in trade, science and the arts followed, and its federal political structure influenced later republics.