Tekstblad bij de prent van de Vrede van Breda, 1667 1667

In 1667, Marcus Willemsz. Doornick created this broadside to commemorate the Peace of Breda. It's an early example of what we might call ‘public information’ – a printed sheet intended for wide circulation, announcing a major political event. Look closely and you'll see dense columns of text, detailing the key moments in the conflict between England and the Dutch Republic. It highlights naval battles, diplomatic negotiations, and, of course, the terms of the peace treaty itself. The Dutch Republic, a burgeoning maritime power, used printed images like this to shape public opinion and foster a sense of national identity. It’s important to remember that the Republic was a relatively new nation, constantly negotiating its place in Europe. Historians use sources like these broadsides to understand how events were perceived and communicated at the time. By examining the language, imagery, and distribution of such materials, we can gain valuable insights into the social and political landscape of the 17th century. This object shows how peace was presented and understood.