Meaning: The quote, "Thus again the Netherlands, for the first time since the fall of Rome, were united under one crown imperial. They had already been once united, in their slavery to Rome," is a historical observation made by John Lothrop Motley, an American historian and diplomat. This quote is taken from his renowned work "The Rise of the Dutch Republic," which was first published in 1856. In this quote, Motley reflects on the historical significance of the Netherlands being united under one imperial crown after the fall of Rome and draws a parallel with their previous unity during their subjugation to the Roman Empire.

The historical context of the quote lies in the period of the Dutch Revolt against the Spanish Habsburg rule, which began in the late 16th century. Motley's work delves into the intricate political and social dynamics of this period, focusing on the rise of the Dutch Republic and its struggle for independence. The quote captures the pivotal moment when the Netherlands, after centuries of fragmented governance and foreign domination, experienced a renewed sense of unity and autonomy under the leadership of the House of Orange-Nassau.

Motley's reference to the fall of Rome is significant as it alludes to the historical continuity and the long-reaching impact of imperial rule in the region. Following the decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, the territories that would later constitute the Netherlands were subject to various rulers and influences, including the Franks, Burgundians, and eventually the Habsburgs. The quote highlights the rarity of the Netherlands being united under one imperial crown, emphasizing the historical significance of this unification in the broader context of European history.

Furthermore, Motley's juxtaposition of the Netherlands' unity under an imperial crown with their previous subjugation to Rome is thought-provoking. It underscores the cyclical nature of historical power dynamics and the enduring impact of imperial authority on the political landscape of the Netherlands. By drawing this parallel, Motley invites readers to contemplate the complexities of national identity, sovereignty, and the legacy of imperial rule.

In a broader sense, the quote reflects Motley's overarching theme of the struggle for freedom and self-determination in the face of imperial oppression. Throughout "The Rise of the Dutch Republic," Motley portrays the Dutch Revolt as a heroic quest for independence, fueled by the spirit of resistance against foreign domination and the quest for self-governance. The quote encapsulates the triumph of the Netherlands in breaking free from external control and reasserting their collective identity and autonomy.

In conclusion, John Lothrop Motley's quote captures a pivotal moment in Dutch history, symbolizing the resurgence of unity and sovereignty after centuries of foreign domination. The reference to the fall of Rome and the Netherlands' previous subjugation to imperial rule adds depth to the historical narrative, inviting readers to contemplate the cyclical nature of power and the enduring quest for freedom. Motley's work continues to be a valuable source for understanding the complexities of the Dutch Revolt and its broader historical significance.