Request namens de burgers van Rotterdam, 1747 1747

This broadside, titled "Request namens de burgers van Rotterdam," was created in 1747 by the widow of Jacobus van Egmont and Son. It provides a glimpse into the political and economic tensions of the Dutch Republic during the mid-18th century. The text reveals a society grappling with the burdens of war and taxation. It is a petition from the citizens of Rotterdam to their local government, expressing their distress over heavy financial burdens. The intersection of class and citizenship is evident here as the appeal highlights the struggles of ordinary people to meet the demands of the state. The appeal emphasizes how these burdens disproportionately affect the "good citizens" who are already struggling. The citizens appeal to the values of the Republic itself. They suggest alternative financial measures that would alleviate the strain on its inhabitants, particularly those who are already facing economic hardship. This broadside serves as a testament to the complex interplay between civic duty, economic survival, and the ideals of a republic. It highlights the emotional and personal dimensions of political discourse.