An Elite within Dutch Nobility: The Teutonic Order Bailiwick of Utrecht, 1640-1840

Abstract

For a long time, the position of the nobility in Dutch society was greatly underestimated. Nobility did have great influence until well into the nineteenth century, especially in the eastern provinces. One of the noble networks was the Teutonic Order Bailiwick of Utrecht, which originated from a crusader order, but since 1640 has been an independent institution of married, Protestant nobles. Because of the requirement of four noble grandparents with an old lineage and a Reformed confession, the membership was very exclusive, a mark of noble distinction.