Netherlands 2021 - Golden Postage Stamp Johan van Oldenbarnevelt

Golden Postmark Johan van Oldenbarnevelt in original packaging including Certificate.

Within the province of Holland, Johan van Oldenbarnevelt quickly rises to prominence as trusted advisor to stadtholder William of Orange. In 1586 he becomes Grand Pensionary (also known as landsadvocaat) of the States of Holland, their most important official. He makes the Republic function effectively.

Because wealthy Holland has the most influence within the republic, Van Oldenbarnevelt’s star rises quickly. His influence is great, and on his initiative the States General can effectively levy taxes and carry out a successful offensive against Spain. He also initiates the founding of the trading organization the Dutch East India Company (VOC). He enjoys great respect at home and abroad and is seen as the driving force of the Republic.

Eventually Oldenbarnevelt faces a rival: stadtholder Prince Maurice, son of William of Orange. For a long time the Republic flourishes under their joint rule. Oldenbarnevelt concentrates on politics and Maurice limits himself to his military duties – it seems like the perfect partnership. But after 1600 they frequently clash. Maurice wants to continue the war against Spain, while Oldenbarnevelt signs a truce, the Twelve Years’ Truce (1609–1621).

Oldenbarnevelt also aims to prevent religious disputes within the Protestant Church. He proves willing to enforce this with troops. In doing so he steps onto the stadtholder’s terrain. Maurice feels threatened and strips Oldenbarnevelt of his power. Eventually he has him arrested. The Grand Pensionary is – to his own astonishment – sentenced to death for high treason. On 13 May 1619 Oldenbarnevelt is beheaded on a scaffold in front of the Ridderzaal in The Hague. An additional dramatic twist is that his conviction was set in motion by the son of his hero William of Orange.

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