An Elite within Dutch Nobility. The Teutonic Order Bailiwick of Utrecht, 1640-18401

For a long time, the position of nobility in Dutch society was greatly underestimated. Yet, did have great influence until well into nineteenth century, especially eastern provinces. The country’s noble networks included Teutonic Order Bailiwick Utrecht, which originated from crusader order, but 1640 decame an independent institution including married, Protestant nobles. Because requirement for four grandparents Reformed confession and stemming old lineage, membership order very exclusive acted as mark distinction families.