William The Silent Research Paper

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“I cannot approve monarchs who want to rule over the conscience of the people, and take away their freedom of choice and religion.” –William the Silent. The provinces of the Netherlands had been a great trading center and one of Europe’s richest areas since the Middle Ages. Phillip II’s harsh treatment of his subjects in the Netherlands led to a catastrophe for Spain. Later, a revolt led by William the Silent, the prince of Orange, grew very strong. People of the Northern provinces lived on land that was below the sea level, protected by large dikes. They opened the dikes flooding the countryside and leaving Phillip’s army helpless. In 1579, under William’s leadership the Northern provinces declared their independence from Spain and became

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