Eendracht maakt macht 1540 - 1567

This anonymous early print from the Low Countries, titled "Eendracht maakt macht", presents us with a visual and textual argument for unity. The print depicts three figures - a Regent, a Burgherr and a Stranger, these being common archetypes that represent the main components of society. Above the figures, a fortified city rises, symbolizing the collective strength and prosperity that unity can bring. This city is not merely a backdrop; it is a beacon of what can be achieved when different parts of society work together. The concept of unity as strength is not new. We see echoes of it in ancient Roman emblems of the fasces, a bundle of rods signifying that individual weakness becomes collective power. This symbolism resurfaces through the ages, shifting in meaning. Here, it's a call for social cohesion. The emotional resonance of this image lies in its promise, and warning, about collective destiny. It touches upon a deep-seated desire for belonging and success through cooperation, a sentiment that continues to shape our world today. The message is cyclical, non-linear, and enduring, proving that unity’s call is a constant throughout human history.