Cornelis de Witt was a prominent Dutch statesman and politician in the 17th century, born on June 24, 1623. He served as the Grand Pensionary of Holland, a key political position in the Dutch Republic. De Witt was known for his strong advocacy of republicanism and his opposition to the House of Orange, which sought to establish a monarchy. De Witt played a significant role in the political landscape of his time, particularly during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. He was instrumental in the development of the Dutch Navy and worked to strengthen the economy. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1672, a victim of political turmoil and public unrest.