William the Third

William Henry, Prince of Orange and Nassau—known to the English as Dutch William—was born into a world overshadowed by the aggressive ambitions of Louis XIV. Traill poignantly observes that the young prince was reared from his very cradle amid the animosities of contending factions, learning early the vital lessons of statecraft to conceal his designs, seize opportunities, choose his allies wisely, and patiently bide his time. The Dutch Republic, wary of monarchy, hesitantly appointed him as stadtholder to command their armies. After the fall of James II in 1688, he ascended the throne of England alongside his consort, Mary, marking a significant turning point in British history. (Summary by Pamela Nagami, M.D.)