A History of the Low Countries

This introductory overview of the Low Countries' history traces their development since Roman times, providing equal weighting to the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. Paul Arblaster looks at political, cultural and social history, including the rise of the merchant classes, the Renaissance and Golden Age, and the two world wars of the 20th century. The final chapter has been expanded and revised to take into account developments since 2011. This third edition is thoroughly updated and revised throughout and benefits from our recently refreshed series design.
This timely and engaging narrative provides an invaluable starting-point for students of History focusing on the Low Countries, European Studies and Dutch studies.
New to this Edition:
- More detail on the EU, particularly current in light of Brexit and Euroscepticism
- More environmental and global history
- Coverage of the latest political developments
- More maps, to bridge the gap between the 15th century and the present day
- An updated bibliography

Paul Arblaster teaches at Zuyd University, Maastricht, the Netherlands. He previously taught at the Centre for European Studies at the University of Leuven, and at Facultés Universitaires Notre Dame de la Paix, Namur, Belgium.

Introduction
1. From Pagans to Crusaders
2. Patterns of Power and Piety
3. The Low Countries United and Divided
4. From Delftware to Porcelain
5. The Rise and Fall of the Liberal Order
6. World Wars and World Peace
Chronology of Major Events
Select List of Dynasties and Rulers
Select List of Political Parties and Governments since 1918
Selected Further Reading in English.