Synod of Dort Part 5: The Persecution Increases

Philip II of Spain decided to crush the rebellion in the Netherlands. He sent the Duke of Alba, a man known for his hatred of the Protestant Reformation, to the Netherlands. The Duke of Alba formed the Council of Troubles, also called the Council of Blood, to persecute the Calvinist Dutch. This council oversaw large arrests, trials, and executions, sometimes up to 40 to 50 people at a time. William the Silent was declared an outlaw. He organized several armies and fought against the Spanish...