The Dutch Republic

Abstract

This chapter explores the cross-cultural connections of a community of English and Scottish exiles who fled to the Dutch Republic, c.1575–1688. Among them were Pilgrims and Puritans, preachers-turned-physicians, dozens of dissenting divines, Fifth Monarchists (Dr Edward Richardson), oft-imprisoned Quakers (William Penn), tortured Presbyterians (William Carstares), religious and political exiles (John Locke). They fled to Holland in waves: during the Elizabethan Settlement (late sixteenth century); during the English Civil Wars (1640s); and in the wake of the Restoration Settlement (1660–2). Some sailed back and forth (illegally) during the Anglo-Dutch Wars. Some sided with the Dutch; others played both sides. Joseph Hill was captured on a secret mission back to England in 1666. William Carstares was shipped to Scotland, so he could be tortured. Persecution drove them together.