Rampjaar

Uncommon card · No. 109573

In 1672, the Dutch Republic faced simultaneous invasions from France, England, and the German bishoprics of Münster and Cologne in what became known as the Rampjaar (Dutch: [ˈrɑmpjaːr] ; "Disaster Year"). The French Royal Army, under Louis XIV, advanced rapidly, capturing large areas of the eastern provinces. English and French warships worked together to challenge Dutch control at sea. Meanwhile, troops from Münster and Cologne pressed into the republic from the east. Many Dutch provinces, including Utrecht and Overijssel, were occupied by foreign armies. The sudden overrunning of most of the country led to widespread panic and unrest within Dutch society. The government, dominated by Grand Pensionary Johan de Witt and the regenten from Holland, lost support as people became dissatisfied with their leadership in the crisis. In response to public demand, Willem III of Orange was appointed stadtholder and also took command of the army. Despite initial setbacks and territorial losses, the...

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