Jan Breydel

In early 1302, as French Governor Jacques de Châtillon occupied Bruges and crushed local guild privileges, Breydel financed and mobilized the Guild of Butchers. He joined forces with the weavers to seize Male Castle and strike back against the garrison.

During the Bruges Matins of May 1302, Breydel helped lead the uprising against French knights. Two months later at the Battle of the Golden Spurs near Kortrijk, Flemish communal infantry armed with goedendags routed French heavy cavalry, establishing Breydel as an enduring national hero.