William III of Holland, also known as William of Orange, was a significant figure in the history of the Netherlands. Born in 1650, he became the Prince of Orange and played a crucial role in the struggle for Dutch independence from Spanish rule. His leadership during the Eighty Years' War helped establish the foundations of the modern Dutch state. In 1689, William III ascended to the English throne as co-monarch with his wife, Mary II, following the Glorious Revolution. His reign in England marked a shift towards constitutional monarchy and strengthened the relationship between England and the Netherlands, influencing European politics for years to come.