dward III Switches Sides and Margaret Reconciles with William V (1354)

Following the Hooks' defeat at the Battle of Vlaardingen (1351), Edward III of England withdrew his support for Margaret of Bavaria and switched allegiance to William V of Holland. This left Margaret politically isolated, forcing her to seek a compromise with her son.

Edward III’s Shift in Allegiance

• After supporting Margaret and the Hooks, Edward III abandoned her cause, recognizing that William V had gained the upper hand.
• This realignment of English support weakened Margaret’s position further, accelerating the end of the Hook and Cod Wars.

The Compromise of 1354: Division of Power

• In 1354, Margaret was forced to negotiate with William V, leading to a final settlement in which:
  • William V was formally recognized as Count of Holland and Zeeland.
  • Margaret retained control of Hainaut, effectively dividing their rule.
• This agreement ended the civil war, securing William’s uncontested rule over Holland and Zeeland while Margaret retained some authority in the Low Countries.

Impact and Legacy

• William V’s rule marked the beginning of a more stable and centralized Holland, strengthening its economic and political development.
• Margaret’s compromise ensured peace, but her authority remained diminished, and William V consolidated power over time.
• The Hook and Cod rivalries continued as a political force, influencing Dutch politics for over a century.

By 1354, the Hook and Cod Wars had effectively ended, with Margaret and William V reaching a compromise, ensuring that Holland and Zeeland remained under William’s control while Margaret retained Hainaut, shaping the future of the Low Countries.