Grand pensionary

A Grand Pensionary (Dutch Raadspensionaris, in German sometimes incorrectly called " Great pensioner ") of the State of Holland and West Friesland, was at the time of the Republic of the United Netherlands, although it as a salaried officer did not belong to the regent, but in fact not merely the business of his province, but as a result of excess weight from Holland led the all over the country and especially led foreign policy. The Office of the Council pensioner was introduced in 1619 as the successor of the country lawyer.

Significant Council retirees in the heyday of the Netherlands was Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, Adriaan Pauw, Johan de Witt, Gaspar Fagel, Anthonie Heinsius and Simon van Slingelandt.