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University of Leyden. From an engraving made in 1614. This University was founded by William the Silent in 1575, as a reward for the heroic defense of the city in the previous year. According yo tradition the citizens were offered their choice between a university and exemption from certain taxes. They chose the university. From 1625, for almost 200 years, this was one of the famous universities of Europe. It was to the city of Leyden that a band of separatists went in 1607-1608, from England, to escape persecution for their independence in religion. Some of them, known to history as the Pilgrim Fathers, came from Leyden to America, after a short stay in England, and were the founders of the Plymouth Colony. |
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