The 80 Years' War (also known as the Dutch War of Independence) was the foundation of Dutch nationhood, and during the course of the conflict one of its main leaders--Maurice of Orange-Nassau--created an army and a tactical system that became a model throughout Europe.

This study, the first of a two-part series, focuses on the Dutch infantry. It examines how Maurice of Orange-Nassau attracted volunteers and students from across Europe, introduced innovative new training methods such as common drill movements, and standardized the organization and payment system of the army to make it more than a match for the occupying Spanish. His successes inspired officers and generals across the continent to copy his methods, including many English officers who went on to fight in the English Civil Wars.

Featuring full-color artwork and rare period illustrations, this book examines how the Dutch infantry was transformed into a fighting force able to defeat the might of Imperial Spain.

Bouko de Groot has a B.A. in art history and an M.A. in Egyptology. He currently lives in Germany. He has served in the army and has published academic, popular scientific, and business journalistic articles.

Gerry Embleton is an illustrator, researcher, and internationally respected authority on 15th- and 18th-century costumes. He lives in Switzerland, where since 1988 he has also been well known for designing and creating life-size historical figures for museums.