Meaning: The quote "Thus the liberties of Holland and Flanders waxed, daily, stronger" is attributed to the historian John Lothrop Motley. It reflects the historical context of the struggle for independence and freedom in the Low Countries during the 16th and 17th centuries. Motley was an American historian and diplomat who wrote extensively about the history of the Netherlands, particularly during the Eighty Years' War, which saw the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.

During this time, the Dutch provinces, including Holland and Flanders, were seeking to assert their autonomy and establish their own political and religious freedoms. The quote captures the spirit of the gradual strengthening of these liberties as the people of Holland and Flanders fought for their rights and independence.

Holland and Flanders were at the center of the Dutch Revolt, a pivotal period in European history that ultimately led to the establishment of the Dutch Republic. The struggle for liberty and independence was deeply intertwined with religious and political conflicts, as the Protestant Dutch rebelled against the rule of the Catholic Spanish Habsburg monarchy.

The phrase "waxed, daily, stronger" suggests a gradual and persistent growth in the liberties of Holland and Flanders. This incremental progress reflects the resilience and determination of the Dutch people in their pursuit of freedom. It also signifies the accumulation of small victories and advancements that collectively contributed to the empowerment of the Dutch provinces.

Motley's quote encapsulates the historical narrative of a region striving for self-determination and the preservation of its cultural and political identity. It highlights the evolving nature of the struggle for liberty, emphasizing that the liberties of Holland and Flanders were not static but instead experienced ongoing growth and fortification over time.

In his historical writings, Motley delved into the complexities of the Dutch Revolt, exploring the social, political, and religious dynamics that shaped the quest for liberty in Holland and Flanders. His work contributed to a deeper understanding of this transformative period in European history and the enduring significance of the struggle for freedom.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the enduring human desire for autonomy and self-governance. It resonates beyond the specific historical context of the Dutch Revolt, speaking to the universal yearning for individual and collective liberties. The phrase "liberties...waxed, daily, stronger" evokes a sense of optimism and perseverance, portraying the gradual but steady advancement of fundamental rights and freedoms.

In conclusion, John Lothrop Motley's quote captures the spirit of the ongoing struggle for liberty in Holland and Flanders during a pivotal period in European history. It symbolizes the gradual strengthening of individual and collective freedoms, reflecting the resilience and determination of the Dutch people in their pursuit of autonomy and self-determination. Motley's historical writings continue to shed light on the significance of this transformative era and the enduring relevance of the quest for liberty.