In September of 1688, the city council of Amsterdam made a significant decision by voting to support William of Orange in his quest to invade England. William, the stadtholder of the Netherlands and husband of James II's daughter Mary, aimed to depose the Catholic king, who had faced increasing opposition from Parliament and various Protestant groups. The council's decision was not merely a local affair; it was indicative of widespread European sentiments against James II and his controversial policies, which had led to fears of a Catholic resurgence in England. The backing from Amsterdam provided William with both legitimacy and a financial base for his military campaign.
The Amsterdammers were motivated by a combination of political pragmatism and religious solidarity. As Calvinists, many in Amsterdam viewed the possibility of a Catholic monarchy with apprehension and saw William as a champion of Protestantism. The support also included logistical assistance, which was essential for William’s ambitious invasion plan. This endorsement catalyzed other regions and factions in England to rally behind William, setting the stage for what would become known as the Glorious Revolution.
As William prepared his fleet and gathered troops, the Dutch Council of State worked closely under his direction to orchestrate the naval venture. The invasion was launched, and it was met with limited resistance as dissenting factions within England rallied to William's cause. The culmination of these events would fundamentally alter the course of English history for decades to come, establishing constitutional monarchy principles and strengthening parliamentary power.