The book "History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Years' Truce, 1585" is the masterpiece of the famous American historian John Lothrop Motley. In his work, the author examines in detail the complex events that took place in the Netherlands between 1584 and 1609, revealing the diplomatic and military events of that time. Through the prism of important historical events, the author examines the struggle for the independence of the Netherlands from Spanish rule, the role of William the Silent in these processes, as well as the interstate relations of Europe at that time. Motley's book is a very valuable document for anyone interested in the history of Europe during the Renaissance and Reformation.