In 1358, delegates from towns in northern Germany first declared themselves “towns of the German Hanse”. In this video, Angela talks about the document which stands for the conflict with Flanders in the mid-fourteenth century, one which played a decisive role in the development of the Hanse.
Never before had the Hanse nailed its colours to the mast so decisively – and so publicly –, united under a single ringing name and openly governed by the towns.
The unity of the Hanse towns proved to be the essential element in their victory over the Flemings in this trade war. As grain became increasingly scarce, especially in Bruges, the Flemish capitulated and agreed to make peace by the summer of 1360, accepting almost all of the Hanseatic demands. With that, the boycott was called off.
Winning the trade war with Flanders strengthened the Hanse internally, while making it seem more imposing externally. The Hanse, a mere confederation of towns, had taken a place at the table of the Northern European great powers.
More information: Europäisches Hansemuseum
