Joan Derk van der Capellen tot den Pol

He became a prominent figure in national politics, where, as a provincial politician, he struck a balance between more established politicians. Despite encountering a great deal of opposition he remained the foremost proponent of modern democratic principles. A pamphlet titled To the People of the Netherlands (Aan het Volk van Nederland) shook things up in 1781 when it was distributed throughout the country over the course of a single night. The anonymous author pointed an accusing finger at the ruling stadthouder William V, Prince of Orange, and his traditional politics. This marked the start of the Patriotic Revolution, which was quickly crushed. It wasn’t until a century later, long after his death, that it was confirmed that Van der Capellen tot den Pol was the author.