Born in The Hague, William of Orange (1650–1702), along with a group of Dutch armed forces, was invited in 1688 to preserve Protestant liberties in England on the heels of James II fleeing the country. Shortly after this event, he was crowned King of England, though as a foreigner he experienced much opposition to his rule. William had an affinity for Dutch culture. During his reign, many Dutch artists received royal commissions, and a select few, including Godfrey Kneller, were appointed court painters.