This is an account of the Princes of Orange in the Dutch Republic from William I, "the Silent", to William V, the last and saddest, in their roles as "stadholders." It interweaves their personal lives and characters with the development of the unique institution of the stadholderate and the broad political history of the republic. Without attempting to engage in psychohistory, the book treats the mind and personalities of the stadholders as significant factors.
Reviews
' ... a skilful outline history which promises to enable the ordinary reader with little previous knowledge of Dutch history to grasp the essence of the political history of one of the more distinctive, dynamic and creative societies of early modern times.' The Times Literary Supplement
