Justinus van Nassau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Justinus van Nassau
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Portrait of Justinus of Nassau
by Jan Antonisz. van Ravesteyn |
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| Born | 1559 |
| Died | 1631 (aged 71–72) |
| Resting place | Hooglandse Kerk, Leiden, Netherlands |
| Spouse(s) | Anna van Mérode |
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Justinus van Nassau (1559–1631) was an important Dutch army commander. He was the only son of William the Silent who was born outside of marriage. William the Silent was a very famous leader in Dutch history.
Justinus is known for several key events. He played a part in defeating the powerful Spanish Armada. He also led the forces in the city of Breda during a long siege in 1624. His surrender at Breda was even shown in a famous painting by Diego Velázquez, called The Surrender of Breda.
His mother was Eva Elincx. She was William's partner between his first and second marriages. William of Orange accepted Justinus as his son. He raised Justinus along with his other children.
Early Life and Military Career
Justinus studied in the city of Leiden. He quickly began a military career. On May 17, 1583, he became a Lieutenant-Colonel in the army.
Later, on February 28, 1585, he became a lieutenant-admiral for the region of Zeeland. This meant he was a high-ranking naval officer. In 1588, he fought bravely against the huge Spanish Armada. During this battle, he managed to capture two large Spanish ships called galleons.
Governor of Breda
From 1601 to 1625, Justinus served as the governor of Breda. This was a very important city in the Dutch Republic. He was in charge of protecting and managing the city.
In 1625, Breda faced a very long and difficult siege. The Spanish general Ambrogio Spinola led the attack. After 11 months of fighting, Justinus had to surrender the city to the Spanish. He was then allowed to leave Breda and move to Leiden.
Family Life
Justinus married Anne, Baronesse de Mérode, on December 4, 1597. She was born in 1567 and passed away in Leiden in 1634.
They had three children together:
- Willem Maurits van Nassau
- Louise Henriëtte van Nassau
- Philips van Nassau
Justinus and his wife were both buried in the Hooglandse Kerk in Leiden.
Images for kids
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Arms of Justinus van Nassau.
