Reaction and Revolution

Abstract

Initial representations against the new administrative and judicial order consisted in respectful petitions to the throne reflecting a certain stunned incredulity at the Emperor’s sudden and decisive stroke. On January 12, the estates of Hainaut extolled the Emperor’s unexcelled love of justice and his laborious attention to all matters of great importance, but reminded him of his inaugural oath and cautioned him that momentous changes such as those recently decreed could not be effected without their advice and consent.¹ Joseph ignored this remonstrance, and gave no heed to the similarly moderate, almost plaintive protests lodged by the Brabant estates a fortnight later, documenting specific contraventions of the Joyeuse Entrée which the sovereign had sworn to uphold.²