House of Orange-Nassau

The House of Orange-Nassau (in Dutch Oranje-Nassau), is a family that has played a central role in the political life of the Netherlands since William I of Orange (also known as "William the Silent" and "Father of the Fatherland") organised the Dutch revolt against Spanish rule, which after the Eighty Years' War led to an independent Dutch state.

Related Topics:
Dutch - Netherlands - William I of Orange - Spanish - Eighty Years' War

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Several members of the house served during this war and after as governor or stadtholder (Dutch stadhouder).

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However, in 1815, after a long period as a republic, the Netherlands became a monarchy under the House of Orange-Nassau.

Related Topics:
1815 - Monarchy

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The dynasty was established as a result of the marriage between Hendrik III of Nassau-Breda from Germany and Claudia of Châlon-Orange from French Burgundy.

Related Topics:
Marriage - Hendrik III of Nassau-Breda - Germany - Claudia of Châlon-Orange - Burgundy

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Their son René of Châlon first adopted the new family name "Orange-Nassau".

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William I was his nephew and successor.

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In the late 17th century, the family also supplied a British monarch, King William III who is credited with causing the Glorious Revolution. Orangemen around the world still celebrate his endeavors every year in colourful, although sometimes controversial Orange Order folk festival commonly called "The Twelfth".

Related Topics:
17th century - British monarch - William III - Glorious Revolution - Orangemen - Orange Order - The Twelfth

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