against a French occupying force. Nowadays, especially Flemish nationalist parties (as, for example, Vlaams Belang), aiming for Flemish independence, have taken up this talking point, as it showcases the victory of an oppressed Flemish infantry against a highly superior French foe. Belgian historian Henri Pirenne, on the other hand, especially laid emphasis on the social scale of the conflict. He is also credited with ensuring the survival of the Dutch language in the northern part of Belgium. The statue Jan Breydel shares with Pieter de Coninck has decorated the Market Place in Bruges ever since 1887. Controversy surrounding his authenticity Contrary to the praise of Jan Breydel as a Flemish hero however, there have also been critical accounts of Breydel. According to Lisa Demets, the historical perception of Jan Breydel as one of the leaders of the Bruges Matins and the Battle of the Golden Spurs is false: According to Demets, the contemporary image of Breydel as one of the heroes of the Franco-Flemish War was made up by his family more than 100 years later. There had been accounts of a Jan Breydel in sources after 1302; however, the portrayal of the Breydel in those sources was rather negative, referring to him as an alcoholic and even murderer. In 1400, however, the portrayals of Jan Breydel suddenly starting getting more positive, portraying him as a hero. Demets states that this was probably an attempt by the Breydel family to increase political influence and fortify their position in Bruges. Trivia The Jan Breydel football stadium of Club Brugge and Cercle Brugge is named after him. References History of Bruges Military personnel from Bruges Revolts involving Flanders 14th-century people from the county of Flanders