Orange, Princes of. (1) William I, "the Silent." Born in 1533. Son of William, Count of Nassau; inherited large domains in Brabant, Flanders, and Holland. Was sent as a boy to the court of Charles V. Enjoyed the confidence of that emperor, but was distrusted by his son, Philip II. In learning the designs of Philip and Henri II of France against the Protestants (1559), he determined to espouse their cause. When the Duke of Alva arrived in the Low Countries (1567), he put himself at the head of the insurgents and, after a protracted struggle, founded the republic of the Netherlands (1579), of which he was elected the first stadholder. He was assassinated at Delft in 1584.

(2) Maurice of Nassau. Born in 1567, second son of the preceding. Was one of the most skillful strategists of the age. Was appointed stadtholder of Holland in 1587, and soon afterwards of Utrecht, Overyssel, and Gueldres. The war with Spain was continued until 1609, after which the Dutch were able to maintain their independence. In 1619, Barneveldt, who accused Maurice of ambitious projects, was put to death. Maurice succeeded his elder brother as Prince of Orange (1618). Died 1625.

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