Timeline of History
600 B.C.E. -
58 B.C.E. -
69-70 -
400s -
1568 -
1579 -
1581 -
Settlement
Peoples turn from a nomadic lifestyle to permanent settlement. The land is settled by Celtic and Germanic tribes, most notably the Batavians. The Batavians are regarded as the “true” forefathers of the Dutch.
Roman Conquest
The Low Countries are conquered by the Romans under Julius Caesar. Roman rule stretches only as far north as the Rhine River. Germanic peoples, the Frisians, inhabit the land beyond the Rhine. Batavians live peacefully amongst the Romans.
Batavian Rebellion
The Revolt of the Batavi against the Romans occurs, under the leadership of Gaius Julius Civilis. Some Roman soldiers aid the revolt, causing a split in their army. The Batavians are ultimately defeated by commander Petilus Cerialis.
Volkverhuizingen
The Romans are overrun by a mass migration of Germanic peoples.
Eighty Years' War
Revolt of the Seventeen Provinces against Spanish rule and king Philip II of Spain.
Union of Utrecht
The northern half of the Seventeen Provinces gave their word to support each other against the Spanish army. Considered the founding of what is the modern Netherlands.
Act of Abjuration
Formal declaration of independence of the northern Dutch provinces from king Philip II of Spain. Became the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands.