← Explore on the interactive map

Perpetual Edict (Netherlands, 1577)

Type Event Region Europe Time 1577

On 12 February 1577, Don John, governor of the Netherlands appointed by Philip II, signed the Perpetual Edict at Marche-en-Famenne, promising to with…

Timeline

  1. 1576–1577Netherlands · NetherlandsAfter the harsh repression of the previous governor, the Duke of Alba, provoked the 'Spanish Fury', Philip II sent Don John to take over. Don John adopted a conciliatory posture, negotiating with representatives of the Dutch provinces and promising to restore traditional liberties and withdraw troops.
  2. 1577Marche-en-Famenne · Luxembourg ProvinceDon John signed the Perpetual Edict at Marche, formally promising to withdraw foreign troops, respect provincial judicial and fiscal privileges, and convene a national States-General. The provincial representatives at first recognized his gubernatorial authority, and north-south relations briefly eased.
  3. 1577Namur · WalloniaIn autumn 1577, Don John secretly seized the citadel of Namur, which the rebels regarded as a betrayal of the Perpetual Edict. Trust between the two sides collapsed, the Netherlands was plunged back into full-scale military confrontation, and the Perpetual Edict became a failed attempt at reconciliation in the Eighty Years' War.

Sources