Hendrik Casimir II, Fuerst von
Nassau-Dietz (1657-1696)
Born 18 January 1657 's-Gravenhage
Died 15 March 1696 Leeuwarden
Buried Jacobijnerkerk, Leeuwarden
Married 16 November 1683 Dessau
Princess Henriette Amalia von Anhalt-Dessau, daughter of
Johann Georg II, Fuerst von Anhalt-Dessau and Countess
Henriette Catharina von Nassau
Born 16 August 1666 Kleve
Died 18 April 1726 Oranienstein nr. Dietz
Only a minor when his father died, his mother brought him up as well
as being Regent in Friesland, Groningen and Drente. Hendrik Casimir II
not only followed in his father's footsteps in the
northerly provinces, but also continued the rivalry with his cousin,
Prince William III of Orange, which had started between their fathers.
However, their relationships became easier once William III had become
King of England. William III assured his appointment as field marshal and
as such he took part in the campaigns against France. However, peace between
the two cousins did not last.
When the Prince of Waldeck, the Dutch General-Fieldmarshal, died, William
III prevented Hendrik Casimir from taking that position by supporting the
Duke of Holstein-Pl”n. Resigning his post, Hendrik
Casimir II withdrew to Leeuwarden, his capital city. This time, his
wife, who had been peace-maker before, did succeed in restoring the peace
and this time it was to be lasting. However, he did not return to an active
role in the army but supported William III in every other way. Sadly, this
did not last very long as he died young in 1696.
Source: Leo van de Pas
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