ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the background to the Low Countries under the Hapsburg Empire, and the changes in religious organisation and governmental structures inaugurated by Philip II, changes which caused increasing resentment. This resentment of sections of the population intensified with the enforcing and increasing anti-heresy measures. Disturbances and riots followed, in some cities escalating to rebellion. All disturbances were quelled and population pacified by the wise actions of the Regent of the Netherlands, Margaret of Parma, aided by moderate members of the Dutch nobility including William of Orange. However, Philip II of Spain and his ministers in Madrid were not convinced that the situation had stabilised enough. The fanatical Duke of Alva and Spanish forces were despatched to impose direct, repressive rule.
