1753 Batavian anti-prefecture protests
 1753 Batavian anti-prefecture protests | |
| Date | 13.IV.1753 AN |
|---|---|
| Location | 's Koningenwaarde |
| Type | Patriotic protests |
| Cause | Opposition to the transformation of the Kingdom of Batavia into a Shirithian prefecture |
| Motive | Preservation of the monarchy and the Batavian political system |
| Participants | Patriotic and conservative groups |
The 1753 Batavian anti-prefecture protests arose after the Shirithian government began implementing prefectures throughout the Imperial Republic. The consequences for the Kingdom of Batavia only became clear after the Vinandy Government took office, causing unrest. In 1752 AN, the unrest mainly consisted of political debate in the Lagerhuis, among other places, but protests arose locally. In early 1753 AN, a large protest was organised in the Batavian capital.
Background
Since 1711 AN, the Kingdom of Batavia has been part of Imperial Republic of Shireroth, as stipulated in the Treaty of Raynor's Keep. Batavia had previously been part of Shireroth, but at that time it was as a result of conquest; this time, however, Batavia became part of Shireroth voluntarily. After the Shiro-Benacian War in 1741 AN, a reform of the system of subdivisions as Imperial Prefectures was initiated. This system brought an end to the feudal system and established a civil system. Although the nobility remained, a noble title was no longer linked to an administrative position. In the early years after the introduction of this system, the Imperial Government failed to implement it effectively. This changed when the Vinandy Government took office.
The implementation of the Imperial Prefectures for Batavia means that the monarchy and the current Batavian political system will be changed. The Lion Throne would become ceremonial and a prefect would be appointed by Shirekeep.
Lead-up to the protest
Lagerhuis discussions
Heated discussions arose in the Lagerhuis. The largest party in the Lagerhuis, the Conservative Monarchist Party led by its new party leader Sophia van Rhodeaerde, made it clear that Batavia had not agreed to be reduced to a prefecture through the Treaty of Raynor's Keep. The Republicans, on the other hand, advocated the implementation of prefectures. For them, this would be the first step towards abolishing the monarchy and transitioning to a civil administration. Sophia pointed out that under the prefectural system, the prefect is still appointed by imperial decree and therefore does not come close to a republican ideal. The speaker had great difficulty restoring order in the chamber.
Local protests
When the implications became public, various local protests broke out. Students occupied buildings at several universities. The political science building at Royal Julius Civilis University was occupied and speeches about the Batavian monarchy were given. A platform was erected in front of the main gate of the Koninklijk Paleis where Batavians could publicly express their loyalty to the Batavian King.
On the campus of the Nieuwe Universiteit in Irrel, republican speeches were given calling for the abolition of the Batavian monarchy. Unofficial flags of the Batavian prefecture, which was yet to be implemented, were hoisted. This university has traditionally been more liberal and progressive than its counterpart in 's Koningenwaarde.
There were also a few disturbances, such as the defacement of the Republican Left party office. And blocking the Trans-Benacian Railway, which would depart from 's Koningenwaarde to Shirekeep.
Great protest
The Conservative Monarchist Party organized the large protest, which is an achievement in itself. Conservatives are more difficult to mobilize for a protest than progressives. Sophia van Rhodeaerde led the protest and gave a speech at Arkadiusplein. "As I argued in the Lagerhuis, we Batavians did not join Shireroth to be reduced to a prefecture. We are proud of our history, our kingdom, and our royal family. Let this be a message to Shirekeep: we are loyal to the Shirithian Kaiser, but also to our king. Let Batavia become a protectorate, so that we can retain our king and our political system!"
