William of Orange - Summary

Background and Early Life

• Birth: William III was born on November 4, 1650, in The Hague, Dutch Republic.
• Family: Only child of William II, Prince of Orange, and Mary, daughter of Charles I of England.
• Early Tragedy: Father died before his birth; mother died of smallpox when he was ten.

Education and Upbringing

• Tutelage: Raised with guidance from governesses and Calvinist preacher Cornelis Trigland.
• Education Conflicts: Disputes over influence between English royal supporters and Dutch republicans.

Rise to Power

• Political Environment: Involved in the Second Anglo-Dutch War; pressure to improve his standing.
• Stadtholder Role: Became stadtholder after overcoming initial resistance due to the Treaty of Westminster.
• Political Maneuvering: Faced opposition from De Witt; eventually became a member of the Council of State.

Major Conflicts and Rulership

• 1672 Disaster Year: Netherlands invaded by France and allies; De Witt brothers killed, strengthening William’s position.
• Marriage: Married Mary, daughter of the Duke of York (future King James II) in 1677, enhancing political ties.

Ascension to the English Throne

• Glorious Revolution: Invited by the Immortal Seven to invade England in 1688, leading to James II's deposition.
• Joint Rule with Mary: Crowned as King William III of England alongside his wife Mary II in 1689.

Legacy

• Religious Impact: An important Protestant figure; still celebrated in Northern Ireland for his victory at the Battle of Boyne.
• Reign End: Ruled until his death in 1702.

Additional Context

• International Relations: Formed anti-French alliances; cautious of French influence.
• Political Influence: Utilized alliances and marriage to consolidate power and influence in Europe.