The Reformation in the Netherlands and the Netherlands Revolt

The Netherlands at the time was a coalition of fifteen self-governing states given mostly to manufacturing and commerce, and, as could be expected, hostile to outside interference with its customs and trade. The king of the Netherlands was Philip of Spain. He had come into the possession of this country as heir of his predecessor and father Charles V. But Philip was king largely in name only. The real ruling body of the Netherlands was the Old Council of State formed of delegates from each...