Dutch Patriot Revolt, 1787

The Dutch Patriot Revolt was part of a series of revolutionary actions that took place from 1787 through 1789 in the Dutch Republic, Austrian Netherlands (now Belgium), Poland, and France.

Background

During this time, the banks of the Dutch Republic held much of the world's capital. The government sponsored banks owned up to 40% of Great Britain's national debt. This concentration of wealth (and the connections the government had to the House of Stuart) led to the formation of the Dutch Patriots by a minor Dutch noble named Joan van der Capellen tot den Pol. They were seeking to reduce the amount of power held by the Stadtholder, William V, Prince of Orange.

Events

The Patriots built support from most of the middle-class, and formed a militia which they named the "Free Corps". The Corps began military action against several cities in an effort to force new elections which would oust the old government officials. They eventually became strong enough to challenge government troops. They continued to progress until Frederick William II of Prussia (whose sister was married to Prince William) decided to intervene militarily. This, together with a small contingent of troops sent by the British, overwhelmed the Patriots and put Prince William firmly in control. The Free Corps continued urging citizens to resist the government by distributing pamphlets, creating "Patriot Clubs" and holding public demonstrations. The government responded by pillaging those towns where the opposition was concentrated. Most of the Patriots were forced to flee to the United States.