In 1337 there was a conflict between France and England that led to English wool imports to Flanders being cut off, ruining the Flemish cloth merchants and weavers. The city of Ghent rebelled, and Jacob van Artevelde was made its leader. In 1338 he negotiated a commercial treaty with England that recognised Flemish neutrality. The other towns of Flanders followed his lead, and trade revived and prospered. In 1340 Artevelde had Edward III of England recognized as king of France by the Flemish towns. Artevelde's successful leadership aroused some local resentment in places, and gained him enemies. Artevelde was murdered in Ghent by a mob when a riot broke out in 1345.
This statue in his honour was erected in 1863.