French Fury facts for kids

Quick facts for kids French Fury
Part of the Eighty Years' War
This painting from around 1586 shows the "Dutch Cow," which represents the Dutch provinces. Francis, Duke of Anjou holds its tail. Philip II of Spain tries to ride it. Elizabeth I of England feeds it, and William of Orange holds its horns.
Date 17 January 1583 Location Antwerp (present-day Belgium) Result Antwerpian victory
Belligerents
France	Antwerpians
Commanders and leaders
Francis, Duke of Anjou
Casualties and losses
1,500+ dead or wounded

The French Fury was a surprise attack on the city of Antwerp on January 17, 1583. It was led by Francis, Duke of Anjou, who wanted to take control of the city. However, the attack failed, and the people of Antwerp successfully defended their home.

What Happened Before the Attack?

During the Eighty Years' War, the Dutch provinces were fighting for their freedom from Spain. In 1581, they asked the Duke of Anjou to become their leader. They hoped this would bring them support from France against the Spanish army.

The Duke of Anjou did not have much power in the Netherlands. He wanted to gain more control. So, he decided to try and capture Antwerp, which was the largest city in the Seventeen Provinces.

Antwerp had already suffered a terrible attack seven years earlier. In 1576, Spanish soldiers had brutally looted the city in an event called the "Spanish Fury". Because of this, the people of Antwerp were very determined to protect their city from any new foreign attacks.

The Failed Surprise Attack

On January 17, 1583, the Duke of Anjou tried to trick the people of Antwerp. He asked to enter the city, saying he wanted to honor them with a special visit. As his soldiers marched into the city, the gates were quickly closed behind them.

The French army lost its chance to surprise the city. They found themselves trapped inside. People in Antwerp fought back from windows and rooftops. They threw stones, rocks, logs, and even heavy chains at the soldiers. The city's experienced defenders then fired their weapons at close range.

Only a few French soldiers, including the Duke of Anjou himself, managed to escape. More than 1,500 French troops died or were wounded. Many were killed by the angry citizens of Antwerp.

What Happened After?

After this failed attack, the Duke of Anjou's position in the Netherlands became very weak. He left the country in June 1583. His departure also caused problems for William of Orange, who had always supported the Duke.

Later, the city of Antwerp was eventually taken over by the Spanish army. This happened after a long fight led by Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma during the Siege of Antwerp (1584-1585).

See also

In Spanish: Ataque a Amberes para niños