CHAPTER VIII. Commencement of the Revolution

COMMENCEMENT OF THE REVOLUTION

A.D. 1566

Commencement of the Revolution--Defence of the Prince of Orange--Confederacy of the Nobles--Louis of Nassau--De Brederode--Philip de St. Aldegonde--Assembly of the Council of State--Confederates enter Brussels--Take the Title of Gueux--Quit Brussels, and disperse in the Provinces--Measures of Government-- Growing Power of the Confederates--Progress of the Reformation-- Field Preaching--Herman Stricker--Boldness of the Protestants-- Peter Dathen--Ambrose Ville--Situation of Antwerp--The Prince repairs to it, and saves it--Meeting of the Confederates at St. Trond---The Prince of Orange and Count Egmont treat with them-- Tyranny of Philip and Moderation of the Spanish Council--Image Breakers--Destruction of the Cathedral, of Antwerp--Terror of Government--Firmness of Viglius--Arbitration between the Court and the People--Concessions made by Government--Restoration of Tranquillity.