Capture of Valkenburg (1574) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Capture of Valkenburg (1574)
Part of the Eighty Years' War and the Anglo-Spanish War (1585–1604)
Date Early February 1574 Location Valkenburg, South Holland, Low Countries (present-day the Netherlands) Result Spanish victory
Belligerents
England Dutch Rebels	Spain
Commanders and leaders
Edward Chester	Francisco de Valdés

The Capture of Valkenburg of 1574 was an important event in early February 1574. It happened in Valkenburg, South Holland, which is now part of the Netherlands. This capture was part of two bigger conflicts: the Eighty Years' War and the Anglo-Spanish War (1585–1604). It also took place during the siege of Leiden, a major event where Spanish forces tried to capture the city of Leiden.

What Happened at Valkenburg?

Valkenburg had a strong fortress, which is like a very secure castle. This fortress was located northwest of Leiden. It was very important because it could either help or make it harder for the Spanish army to attack Leiden.

English Troops Guard the Fortress

About five groups of English soldiers were protecting the Valkenburg fortress. Their leader was a man named Colonel Edward Chester. They were there to stop the Spanish forces.

The Spanish Attack

In early February, Spanish troops arrived at Valkenburg Castle. These troops were sent by Don Francisco de Valdés, a Spanish military leader. Instead of fighting, the English soldiers decided to give up the fortress to the Spanish. They then quickly left and headed towards Leiden.

Spanish Victory

After the English left, the Spanish forces easily entered and took control of the fortress. This was a quick victory for Spain. The English soldiers were seen as not very brave for giving up so easily. Because of this, the Dutch rebel army in Leiden did not want them to join their fight. In the end, Colonel Chester's troops had to surrender to the Spanish army.

Other Battles and Defeats

Soon after Valkenburg, other English forces faced problems.

Defeats at Alphen and Gouda

English soldiers stationed in Alphen (now called Alphen aan den Rijn) were also defeated. In Gouda, another group of English soldiers was surprised by Spanish troops. They lost about 300 men and three of their battle flags.

The Battle of Mookerheyde

In April 1574, Francisco de Valdés stopped the siege of Leiden for a short time. He needed to face a rebel army that was invading. This rebel army was led by Louis of Nassau and Henry of Nassau-Dillenburg, who were brothers of Prince William of Orange.

However, Spanish forces led by General Don Sancho d'Avila reached the rebel army first. This led to a big battle called the Battle of Mookerheyde. The Dutch rebel army suffered a terrible defeat. They lost at least 3,000 soldiers, and both Louis and Henry were killed. After this, the rebel army broke apart because the soldiers were not getting paid.

See also

• Siege of Leiden
• Battle of Reimerswaal
• Battle of Mookerheyde
• States-General of the Netherlands
• List of Governors of the Spanish Netherlands

Images for kids

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  Portrait of Don Francisco de Valdés. Engraving by Emanuel van Meteren.