Dutch Declaration of Independence (1581)
Explanation and Analysis of the Document
The Dutch Declaration of Independence begins with a lengthy exposition detailing the abuses of the Spanish king, Philip II, and the historical circumstances that led to the signing of the document. This is followed by the “declaration of independence” per se, indicating that the duke of Anjou agreed to function as the Netherlands’ monarch, listing specific ways in which Spanish influence was to be eliminated, and outlining provisions for the governance of the provinces.
Paragraphs 1–7
The first seven paragraphs of the declaration effectively constitute a preamble, although the section is not specifically identified as such. In the preamble, the Dutch rebels outline in detail the historical circumstances that led to their renunciation of Spanish rule. After a very brief introduction, the document opens with harsh criticism of Spain’s King Philip. Using traditional Christian imagery, the document compares the king to a shepherd and the...
