Edict of 1577 facts for kids
The Edict of 1577 was an important agreement signed on February 12, 1577. It is also known as the Perpetual Edict or the Eternal Edict. It was signed in a town called Marche-en-Famenne by Don John of Austria, who was the new Spanish governor-general of the Dutch lands ruled by Spain.
What Was the Edict of 1577?
This agreement was a big step towards peace. It said that Spanish soldiers had to leave the Netherlands. It also agreed to follow the rules of an earlier peace deal called the Pacification of Ghent. In return, the Dutch provinces promised to support the king and the Catholic religion.
What Happened After the Edict?
At first, people were happy about the Edict. It seemed like a good way to end the fighting. However, things changed quickly. By July 1577, Don John started planning new attacks against the Dutch rebels.
England's Role
Queen Elizabeth I of England liked both the Pacification of Ghent and the Edict of 1577. She wanted peace in the Netherlands. Because of this, she offered money and military help to the Dutch. When it became clear that Don John was breaking his promise, Queen Elizabeth planned to help defend the provinces. She was ready to send £100,000 and troops if he attacked.
Some of England's money was used to pay for soldiers led by John Casimir. He was a strong supporter of the Calvinist religion. His soldiers marched into a region called Brabant. But the money eventually ran out.
See also
In Spanish: Edicto perpetuo de 1577 para niños
