Collaborators and Parvenus? Fate and Fortune of Loyal Noblemen during the Dutch Revolt

This working paper addresses the limits of Habsburg patronage during the Dutch Revolt, which became clear not only through the rebellion of Prince William of Orange, but also through the opposition of noblemen remaining loyal. It proceeds by a juxtaposition of two loyal noblemen of the lower nobility, Charles Count of Berlaymont (1510-1578) and Philip of Sainte- Aldegonde, Baron of Noircarmes (?-1574), both of whom are portrayed as ‘parvenus’ and ‘collaborators’ in traditional (Dutch) historiography. Their decision to remain loyal was however rational, religious and emotional at the same time,... Mehr ...