The book "The History of the United Netherlands from the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Years' Armistice, 1600" by John Lothrop Motley is a weighty work that reveals the complex and uplifting two-facets in the history of the Netherlands in the 16th century. The author explores important events, people and political relations of that time, telling about the period of wars for power and struggle for independence of this country. In his book, Motley celebrates the people's liberation efforts and heroic resistance to attack, as well as the role of outstanding personalities in the history of the Netherlands. "History of the United Netherlands" is not only a careful reconstruction of past events, but also an important testimony of the struggle for freedom and justice in the center of Europe.