Brief summary: In 1573-1574, the Spaniards under Francisco de Valdez besieged the rebellious city of Leiden.
The inhabitants suffered from hunger and disease.
William of Orange had the dikes breached, causing the surrounding land to flood.
On October 3, the Sea Beggars (led by Admiral Boisot) were able to reach the city in flat-bottomed boats.
The Spaniards fled, and the liberators distributed herring and white bread to the starving population.
This marked a major turning point in the Dutch Revolt.
In gratitude, William of Orange founded Leiden University (1575).
Today, the people of Leiden celebrate this every year on October 3 with a grand festival: herring and white bread, parades, a fair and hutspot.
It is an official public holiday in Leiden.
In short: a heroic story of resistance, smart water management, and victory against the Spaniards.
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