Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
les-gueux
noun
/leɡø/
Definition
The Gueux were a group of rebellious commoners and minor nobility in the Low Countries during the late 16th century.
Examples
- The les-gueux played a significant role in the Eighty Years’ War.
- Many les-gueux sought freedom from oppressive taxes and Spanish control.
- The symbol of the les-gueux was often used in propaganda against the ruling powers.
Meaning
The term ‘les-gueux’ refers to those who were impoverished or part of the lower social strata, and it became a symbol of opposition against Spanish rule in the Netherlands.
Synonyms
- the Beggars
- the insurgents
- rebels
