The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Volume 28: 1578, part II

In the summer of 1578 the Low Countries are a tinderbox of war and intrigue. Spanish commander Don John sweeps through a string of towns, imposing harsh reprisals that leave civilians trembling and the local aristocracy in disarray. Meanwhile, the battered citizens of Brussels, enraged by the defeat at Gemblours, look to the Prince of Orange for leadership as he moves through the streets by night, trying to stave off mob vengeance.

The conflict soon turns political as the shattered provinces scramble to rebuild their forces and negotiate a fragile peace. Central to the drama is the contested city of Amsterdam, whose wealthy merchants and devout clergy refuse to accept Orange’s authority without a bargain that would let them “govern their governor.” Against a backdrop of religious discord and foreign meddling, the early months set the stage for a struggle that will shape the very foundation of the nascent Dutch Republic.