History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Year's Truce, 1608b

"History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Year's Truce--1609" by John Lothrop Motley is a journey through a period of significant conflict and political maneuvering in the United Netherlands, detailing their fight for freedom from Spanish dominion with a focus on the disagreements and cooperation among influential figures like Prince Maurice and Barneveld. It's a story of intense disputes, foreign trickery, and discussions of whether to keep battling for full independence or to settle for a truce that might put their own rules in peril. The pages reveal clashing goals, religious prejudice, and the developing sense of Dutch identity, all highlighted by the words and actions of important leaders, giving a detailed look into the nation's early years and highlighting the battle between wanting freedom and the tough realities of political plans.