The elusive Netherlands. The question of national identity in the early modern Low Countries on the eve of the Revolt
Alastair Duke
The Elusive Netherlands: the Question of National Identity in early Modern Low Countries on Eve RevoltThe idea Burgundian-Habsburg Netherlands having any sort national identity is usually met with understandable scepticism. constitutional obstacles to construction such an were formidable, not least piecemeal formation Burgundian dynastic state, whose prince owed homage kings France and Holy Roman Emperor for their territories, some subjects could still seek justice ‘foreign’ courts . Not surprisingly modern baffled foreigners, but even those thoroughly familiar region did know whether it belonged ‘Gallia’ ‘Germania’, particular how Habsburg related entity as vague ‘Nider teutschelant’. rich yet problematic nomenclature testifies these difficulties, which aggravated by protean configuration state uncertain relationship between ‘Dutch’ ‘Teutsch zung’. state-building activities Charles V certainly resolve political cultural confusion, 1555 had helped foster a stronger consciousness distinctive community, especially ‘core’ provinces. On eve Revolt this found expression, ironically, emerging opposition presence Spanish soldiers central government’s religious policy.
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