Birth of Francis Van Aarssens
Francis Van Aarssens was born on September 27, 1572, in Brussels, which was then part of the Spanish Netherlands.
1572
1598
Appointment as Secretary to the States-General
Francis Van Aarssens was appointed as the Secretary to the States-General of the Dutch Republic, marking the beginning of his influential political career.
1602
Diplomatic Mission to France
Van Aarssens was sent on a crucial diplomatic mission to France to strengthen the alliance between the Dutch Republic and France against Spain.
1609
Negotiation of the Twelve Years' Truce
Francis Van Aarssens played a key role in negotiating the Twelve Years' Truce between the Dutch Republic and Spain, which temporarily halted the Eighty Years' War.
1614
Conflict with Johan van Oldenbarnevelt
Van Aarssens had a significant political conflict with Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, the influential Dutch statesman, leading to his temporary fall from grace.
1618
Return to Political Power
After the arrest of Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, Francis Van Aarssens returned to a position of influence in the Dutch government.
1621
Resumption of Hostilities with Spain
The Twelve Years' Truce expired, and hostilities resumed between the Dutch Republic and Spain. Van Aarssens was involved in the renewed diplomatic and military efforts.
1625
Death of Maurice of Nassau
Maurice of Nassau, a key ally of Francis Van Aarssens, died. This event significantly impacted the political dynamics within the Dutch Republic.
1630
Influence on Dutch Foreign Policy
Van Aarssens continued to exert significant influence on the foreign policy of the Dutch Republic, particularly in its relations with France and England.
1632
Battle of Maastricht
Francis Van Aarssens was involved in the strategic planning leading to the successful capture of Maastricht by the Dutch forces.
1635
Alliance with France
Van Aarssens was instrumental in forming the alliance between the Dutch Republic and France against the Habsburgs during the Thirty Years' War.
1637
Siege of Breda
Francis Van Aarssens played a key role in the successful siege and capture of Breda from Spanish control.
1641
Negotiations for Peace
Van Aarssens was involved in early negotiations that would eventually lead to the Peace of Westphalia, ending the Thirty Years' War.
1648
Peace of Westphalia
The Peace of Westphalia was signed, ending the Thirty Years' War and recognizing the independence of the Dutch Republic. Francis Van Aarssens' diplomatic efforts were crucial in these negotiations.
1657
Death of Francis Van Aarssens
Francis Van Aarssens passed away on December 27, 1657. His legacy as a skilled diplomat and statesman continued to influence Dutch politics and international relations.
