The New Student's Reference Work/Artevelde, Jacob Van

Artevelde (ar'ta-velt), Jacob Van, a Flemish leader of the people in the 14th century, was a brewer in Ghent. His wealth, eloquence and talents made him the most prominent man on the side of the citizens in their struggles against Count Louis of Flanders. The people of Ghent made him commander of their forces, and he banished from the town all the nobles and friends of the count. His power was secure for ten years, but in 1335 he made a treaty with Edward III of England, persuading him to assume the title of king of France. To strengthen this alliance, he tried to make Edward the Black Prince count of Flanders, when the people rose in rebellion and Artevelde was slain July, 24, 1345.