Bur­gers, pau­pers en ketters

In the 16^e For the past century, Gorinchem was a quiet town with approximately 5000 inhabitants. The Reformation and the Revolt against Spain brought about major changes. In 1572, the Sea Beggars sided with William of Orange and captured 19 Catholic clergymen, who were later hanged in Brielle as the Martyrs of Gorcum. After 1572, Gorinchem became a Reformed city with a city council that did not accept Catholics. Nevertheless, old traditions and customs persisted, and the people of Gorcum did not allow themselves to be dictated to by law when it came to annual festivals, inn visits, and weddings. Although the city had changed administratively and religiously after 1572, daily life largely continued as before.