THREAD: the Low Countries played an important role in the 'constitutional' history of Europe, but that has often been overlooked by historians who often just look at e.g. de Magna Carta. In this thread I'll give a short overview of similar docs/ideas born in the Low Countries.(1)
In 1127, a conflict emerged between the cities and Count Willem of Flanders. In 1128, Iwein van Aalst claimed the Count should appear before a court as he breached the contract with his people. Thus, an early expression of the Rule of Law. (2) 
In 1196, Prince-Bishop Albert of Liège issued his charter - part of many charters - which confirmed some basic liberties for his people, including the clause that officers of law could not just enter someone's house without good reason.(3)
In 1312 Jan II of Brabant issued his Charter of Kortenberg, which regulated how the Duke could not raise tax without consent, rule of law applied to 'the rich and the poor' and laws could only have affect if approved by the Ducal Council.
In 1356 Duchess Johanna of Brabant issued the 'Blijde Inkomst', which regulated the relationship with her people. She could not wage war or raise taxes without consent and a special clause said the people could depose her and her successors if they would breach this contract.
In 1477, Mary of Burgundy issued the Great Privilege which effectively put greater power into the hands of the Estates-General and restricted the ruler's influence over affairs of state.
In 1581, the rebellious Netherlands deposed Philip II of Spain as their ruler as they felt he breached his contract and it was forbidden to use his seal and name on state documents.
In 1789 the Republic of Liège issued the Declaration of the Rights of Men, which went further than the French counterpart, as sovereignty resides in the people and not the nation and absolute freedom of expression was declared.
In 1831, Belgium adopted a constitution which was considered one of the most liberal documents of its time and would inspire many other constitutions accross the globe.
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