Wijerd Jelckama facts for kids

Wijerd Jelckama (born 1490 – died July 7, 1523) was a brave Frisian freedom fighter. He was also known as a strong warrior, a leader in battles, a rebel, and even a pirate.

Wijerd Jelckama's Early Life

Wijerd Jelckama was born in 1490. He came from a large family of farmers and minor nobles. His family had a history of knights who fought in the Crusades. One of his ancestors even died during the Siege of Antioch.

Wijerd Jelckama was married to a woman named Fokel. The exact year they got married is not known. Fokel lived longer than Wijerd, passing away in 1553. They had two daughters and one son. Their son was named Janco Douwes Jelckama (1514-1587). Their daughters were Bonga (1516-1575) and Fokel (1517-1546).

Wijerd Jelckama also had grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His official family line likely ended with a great-granddaughter who died in 1625.

Fighting for Freedom: The Rebellion

Wijerd Jelckama joined forces with another famous Frisian leader, Pier Gerlofs Donia. Together, they fought against the Saxon warriors. These warriors had taken over their homeland, Frisia. Jelckama helped in important battles, like capturing Medemblik and attacking Middelburg castle.

For the first five years, Jelckama was Donia's trusted second-in-command. After Donia passed away in 1520, Jelckama took over as the main leader of the armies. He had already been a key commander of the Arumer Black Heap. He led the Frisian rebellion against the powerful House of Habsburg starting in 1519.

Jelckama's Amazing Strength

Stories say that Wijerd Jelckama was incredibly strong. An author named Wopke Eekhoff wrote about his strength. He said Jelckama was as sturdy as his giant uncle. This uncle was reportedly at least 7 feet tall. He was even said to have lifted a 1000-pound horse above his head!

Wijerd Jelckama himself was also very tall, standing at 7 feet. He was strong enough to lift a horse high up over his own shoulders.

The End of the Rebellion

After facing several defeats, Wijerd Jelckama and the remaining Frisian army were captured in 1523. They were taken to the city of Leeuwarden in Frisia. There, they were executed in public.

With the death of Jelckama and his rebel fighters, the independence of Frisia came to an end. This event marked the last major successful revolt in Frisian history. It is still remembered as a significant moment today.

See also

In Spanish: Wijerd Jelckama para niños