Artikel

Revolutionaire mechanismen in Vlaanderen van de 13de tot de 16de eeuw

---

Abstract

Revolutionary mechanisms in Flanders from the 13th to the 16th century - In this article the revolutionary models of Brinton, Davies, Hobsbawm, Baechler and Gurr were tested in a preindustrial society. This society was nevertheless characterized by a high degree of economic development, a strong division of labor and extensive commercial activity. Flanders was chosen because a number of revolutionary movements existed there in the period from ca. 1279 to ca. 1567. The research has resulted in the revision of several hypotheses. Brinton’s model was particularly susceptible to modification, because its generalizations were extended from too narrow a basis of research. It was characteristic for the revolutionary movements we have studied to succeed not during a period of economic expansion, but instead during a period of recession in a highly developed economy. Davies’ thesis concerning the frustration of rising expectations remained valid for most cases; although in a number of instances there was simply a frustration of minimal expectations. Gurr has conveniently refined this theory. The factors stressed by Hobsbawm, legitimacy and the claims for consideration of the lower social orders were confirmed again and again. All Gurr’s hypotheses proved to be acceptable in a positive or negative sense. We stressed the impact of the revolutionary tradition in Flanders, especially in Ghent. This article also emphasized another constant factor, the temporary confluence of the divergent concerns of social groups. The mass movements, which were violent, short-lived and as a result ineffective in most cases, reacted mainly upon economic incentives. They were time and again frustrated by the perpetual ambitions of upperclass factions which aspired to power.

How to Cite:

Blockmans, W., (1974) “Revolutionaire mechanismen in Vlaanderen van de 13de tot de 16de eeuw”, Tijdschrift voor Sociale Wetenschappen 19(2), 123–140. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/tvsw.95965