Introduction

The story of the Bokkenrijders, a group of impoverished individuals turned bandits in 18th-century Limburg, offers a powerful lens to examine societal unrest. Their turn to banditry and witchcraft, driven by extreme poverty and a lack of trust in both local authorities and the Church, was a direct response to systemic inequality. Nearly three centuries later, while progress has been made, the same forces of oppression, economic disparity, and criminalization of poverty continue to shape the lives of marginalized populations today. The Bokkenrijders’ story, though rooted in history, continues to symbolize resistance against unjust systems, reminding us that these struggles persist today, though often in less visible forms.

While much has improved I am not sure about how much of the same systemic oppression continues to push today’s most vulnerable populations to the brink. Although circumstances have improved, many still feel that they are not truly free. Modern systems still maintain control over marginalized groups in ways that are not immediately obvious, we are all programmed by our upbringing and society and under pressure from societal norms.

Though this post doesn’t aim to inspire criminal behavior, it highlights how the Bokkenrijders can serve as a powerful symbol for resisting unjust systems. Their legacy can inspire people to challenge authority, though, of course, there are many different ways to do so constructively.

This could explain why the legends of the Bokkenrijders are still held in such high regard in the Netherlands, Belgium, and even beyond. For those who may fear taking action themselves, these stories offer a sense of relief. At least in the past, someone dared to challenge the system, providing a glimmer of hope that resistance, though difficult, is always possible.

Who Were the Bokkenrijders?

The Bokkenrijders, or 'Goat Riders,' were a notorious group of bandits in the 18th century, primarily active in what is now Belgium and the Southern Netherlands. Their criminal activities, including robbery and banditry, became legendary, but their true infamy arose from the widespread belief that they were part of a dark, conspiratorial network linked to witchcraft and Satanism. According to myth, they were said to possess the supernatural ability to fly on goats under the cover of night.

During a tour of the caves in Valkenburg, a city in Limburg where many Bokkenrijders were active, I learned about their organized structure. Led in part by ex-military members, they held secret meetings in caves and forests, coordinating simultaneous robberies across various towns. This strategic coordination led people to believe these events were the work of one unified group. Given the prevalence of goats on farms near the places they targeted, locals speculated that the Bokkenrijders could somehow "fly" on goats, allowing them to cover distances quickly—a myth that the group later adopted to enhance their fearsome reputation.

What makes the story of the Bokkenrijders particularly intriguing is how it merges elements of both history and myth, as well as social resistance. Their criminal actions, while illegal, may have been driven in part by the broader social and political frustrations of their time. Could there be lessons for us today in their defiance? Or did they go too far, allowing their legend to blur the line between rebellion and recklessness?

Social and economic unrest of the time

The Bokkenrijders’ actions were driven by extreme social and economic unrest. Rural populations faced widespread poverty, and harsh treatment from authorities exacerbated their plight (Trachet, 2002; Nacenta, 1964). Many Bokkenrijders came from lower classes who, under oppressive feudal conditions, turned to crime for survival. Their actions were seen both as criminal and as symbols of frustration and desperation, making them figures of fear and sympathy (Trachet, 2002).

T. Trachet’s "Social Unrest in the Southern Netherlands during the 17th and 18th Century" (2021) highlights the extreme poverty and oppressive conditions in the Southern Netherlands. The rural population endured high taxes, limited resources, and severe punishments for minor offenses, exacerbated by corrupt local governance and the Church, which enforced strict control to uphold the power of wealthy landowners. This environment fueled rebellion, with the Bokkenrijders acting as both rebels and criminals. Trachet suggests their actions, including the use of occult symbols and anti-Church rituals, were expressions of resistance against oppressive authorities.

The social conditions that drove the Bokkenrijders to rebellion—such as extreme poverty and systemic inequality—resonate with modern issues like the rising cost of living. Today, the growing wealth gap and the criminalization of poverty (treating people as criminals for actions born from economic hardship, like theft or homelessness) can lead to exploitation and marginalization, though the dynamics have shifted, with the poor often becoming victims rather than perpetrators of crime. I will delve further into this later.

Satanic witches

The Bokkenrijders are often depicted using occult rituals to secure the Devil's aid in their outlaw activities, possibly due to their disillusionment with the Church, which was seen as corrupt and unsympathetic to the poor. Some members turned to the Devil as a more reliable source of help (T. Oversteegen, 2014). These rituals included desecrating holy hosts—spitting on, burying, or mixing them with beer—as acts of defiance against Church authority. They also consumed alcohol, particularly absinthe laced with rough chervil, a poisonous herb that added hallucinogenic effects to their gatherings. Magical and alcoholic drinks were key to their rituals, enhancing the transgressive nature of their activities. They also used a bitter red oil in various rites, and during oaths, they sometimes displayed a severed hand or decapitated head, likely taken from graves, reinforcing the grim and rebellious character of their rituals (T. Oversteegen, 2014).

This mix of ritual practices and anti-establishment sentiment highlights how the Bokkenrijders rejected social norms and embraced dark, forbidden elements. At the time, the Church held significant power, leading many to seek alternative spiritual practices as a form of rebellion or empowerment. The appeal to the Devil was seen as a defiant act against the Church's authority, offering marginalized people a way to reclaim control and identity in a system that offered few opportunities for empowerment. Invoking the Devil was not only rebellious but also a rejection of an institution that had long neglected the poor, turning the fear of the Devil into a tool of empowerment.

Robin Hood-like status

In the Netherlands and Belgium, the Bokkenrijders are sometimes viewed as having a Robin Hood-like status, stealing from the wealthy and corrupt authorities while advocating for socialist ideals. They aimed to distribute their loot equally, promoting principles of fairness and equality within their organization. Seen by some as champions of the downtrodden, they envisioned a redistribution of wealth and an end to aristocratic domination. Evidence suggests they sought more than wealth, possibly aspiring to instigate a revolution, similar to the French Revolution, with ambitions to form an army to challenge the established order (T. Oversteegen, 2014).

Their rebellion was driven by a desire for social transformation rather than mere criminality, reflecting a radical socialist stance. This aim for equality and fairness stood in opposition to the inequities imposed by the aristocracy and foreign powers. The Bokkenrijders likely saw themselves as necessary forces in the fight against injustice, not just outlaws (projectbokkenrijders, 2024). Their motivations mirrored revolutionary zeal, advocating for the redistribution of wealth and dismantling unjust systems (smallwarsjournal, 2024). But their rebellion wasn’t purely ideological but rooted in the desperation of their situation, which mirrors the complexities of modern resistance.

The brutal persecution and torture of the Bokkenrijders serve as a tragic example of how authorities responded to those on the margins of society. Operating in extreme poverty, they faced harsh repression from both church and state, with many subjected to torture to extract confessions, some of which were false (projectbokkenrijders, 2024). Torture techniques like the breaking wheel or rack were commonly used, often leading to unreliable confessions (projectbokkenrijders, 2024).

In the late 18th century, fear of the Bokkenrijders was amplified by accusations of witchcraft and Satanism, such as claims they could fly on goats. These allegations, fueled by the Catholic Church, made their persecution feel more like an inquisition than a criminal investigation (smallwarsjournal, 2024). The torture and executions of the Bokkenrijders symbolized the harsh repression faced by those challenging authority, akin to other persecuted groups in history. Their story highlights the severe consequences of uprisings against the established order. Oppressors inevitably view—and portray—those seeking to break free as criminals, using this as a justification for harsh punishment. Despite their violent methods, the Bokkenrijders’ vision of liberty, equality, and fraternity—ideals they shared with the French Revolution—persisted (T. Oversteegen, 2014).

The core ideals of the Bokkenrijders—redistribution and equality—resonate with modern movements for social justice, highlighting the persistent struggle against systemic oppression and economic inequality. Driven by poverty and the harsh, oppressive systems of their time, the Bokkenrijders’ struggles reflect the ongoing challenges of inequality and disenfranchisement that still shape lives today. While methods of resistance have evolved and certain conditions have improved, underlying issues of economic disparity and social injustice remain. Contemporary challenges, like the housing crisis and rising poverty, echo the same themes of inequality that fueled the Bokkenrijders’ defiance centuries ago.

Oppression and Poverty Today

Although significant progress has been made since the 18th century—such as the abolition of torture and executions for legal infractions, a reduction in poverty-related deaths, and some improvement in working conditions—poverty and oppression remain prevalent today. In the Netherlands, the gap between the wealthy and the rest of society continues to widen. While the statistics and examples provided here focus on my country, similar trends and challenges can often be observed across other Western nations. Many of these countries face comparable economic pressures, labor market dynamics, and social policies that shape people's experiences in similar ways.

While taxes on labor income are higher than those on wealth, the rich often find ways to evade taxes, further entrenching this divide. However, in contemporary society, taxation is no longer our greatest concern.

The legacy of the Bokkenrijders provides a parallel to modern-day poverty, systemic oppression, and the criminalization of marginalized groups. Despite the Netherlands' wealth, 1 in 9 people still live below the poverty line, with income inequality increasing (CBS, 2023). Many people might not be fully aware, but there's often more oppression and inequality in our societies than we might assume. Beneath the surface of modern conveniences and freedoms, subtle forms of control and disparity persist, affecting people’s lives in profound ways.

While many middle- and high-income individuals in the Netherlands may feel progress is being made, a significant number of families, single individuals, and elderly people are still struggling with rising energy costs and expensive groceries. In 2023 alone, food aid increased, with nearly 255,000 grocery cards distributed to those in need (Rode Kruis, 2024).

Housing, too, remains a critical issue. The CBS reports a shortage of approximately 315,000 homes, particularly affecting young people. They often face high rental prices and unsafe living conditions, leading many to stay with their parents, in student housing, or share accommodations (NJI, 2024). In 2024, rental prices saw their steepest rise in 30 years, hitting low-income households the hardest (Parool, 2024). Woonbond predicted this sharp increase, describing it as "extreme." M. ten Broeke, spokesperson for Woonbond, voiced concern, stating, "If the system doesn’t change, we’re very concerned about next year. There must be a reason rental prices need to increase" (Parool, 2024). Reports of young people fearing homelessness due to these pressures are increasingly common.

Looking back, workers in the 18th century sometimes labored 12 to 15 hours a day. However, the introduction of the 8-hour workday on June 14, 1921, marked the end of such extreme working hours (T. Trachet, 2021). Interestingly, studies show that hunter-gatherer societies worked only about 15 hours a week, and in agricultural societies, work usually averaged 5 to 6 hours per day (Cohen, 1974; Dr. B. Janse, 2019). Dr. Janse notes that the “9 to 5” workday only became standard during the Industrial Revolution. Since then, workloads have intensified, and media-driven ideal images have increased social pressure, impacting mental health.

Today, people have a wide array of creative outlets to explore. Social media is filled with individuals sharing unique food creations, innovative art forms, music, and even transformative makeup that allows them to become entirely different beings. We see writers, vloggers, and artists of all kinds expressing themselves, each with their own perspective. I believe that self-expression is essential for mental and emotional well-being. However, not everyone has the luxury of time to pursue these passions—many feel overworked, especially those with children, who may feel as if they’re no longer living for themselves.

When people do have more personal time, they often become more creative and better at problem-solving. Research has found that adequate rest, time away from work, and personal leisure significantly enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. A study published in Journal of Experimental Social Psychology (2010) showed that individuals are more creative when they are less fatigued, as rest contributes to cognitive flexibility, which is crucial for creativity (Baumeister, Schmeichel, & Vohs, 2010).

I also believe that, even in professional settings, productivity improves when people aren’t under constant stress or pressure. A balanced life fosters creativity and can make work more fulfilling for everyone. This is why I believe it’s important for people to have jobs where they feel appreciated, where they can be themselves, where they can contribute meaningfully, and where work isn’t their only source of fulfillment. Sadly, many people still don’t experience their workplaces in this way. For them, work remains a source of stress and dissatisfaction rather than a fulfilling part of life. Many studies show that chronic stress and lack of fulfillment lead to higher burnout rates, decreased productivity, and lower employee satisfaction. According to the World Health Organization (2019), workplace stress is one of the main causes of burnout, which reduces both productivity and personal well-being.

Burnout is a growing issue. In 2020, one in seven employees (approximately 1.3 million people) experienced burnout symptoms (CBS, 2021). By 2022, this number increased to one in four employees aged 18 to 35, and the trend continued to rise after a brief decline in 2020 (SER, 2023). Many people feel overworked, lacking personal time and feeling underappreciated. When individuals experience burnout, recovery time is often insufficient, leading them to relapse quickly.

I’ve heard stories from doctors exhausted by pharmaceutical policies limiting their ability to help, as well as from divorced or unemployed individuals burdened by child support payments, sinking deeper into financial hardship. Some even turn to trading in an attempt to escape their troubles, only to fall victim to scams. Those working in healthcare often feel frustrated, unable to provide the care they aspire to give, while those receiving care are dissatisfied. The number of heartbreaking stories from people facing various struggles seems to be growing every day.

The Fairy Tale of Our Social Safety Net

I want to start with a disclaimer: I know that in many other countries, circumstances can be much worse, and poverty can reach more extreme levels. However, some people tend to believe that in our country, Holland, everything is always good for everyone. While we do have food banks, it’s important to recognize that not everyone here gets equal opportunities.

There is a widespread belief that the Netherlands provides a comprehensive social safety net, but it doesn’t cover as much as many people think. Of the country’s 17 million people, 52%—approximately 8.8 million—live with chronic illnesses, including conditions like rheumatism, back pain, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases (Pfizer.nl, 2023). Half of these individuals work at least part-time, but this can increase their risk of burnout. This highlights the unfairness of a system where anyone can unexpectedly fall ill and face significant challenges.

As of late 2022, only about 459,270 people received a sickness benefit (WIA or Wajong), representing just 5.2% of chronically ill individuals (CBS, 2023). Many more are unable to work and risk financial hardship due to their health. In 2021, 3.1 million people were classified as “unused potential” by CBS, meaning they were not seeking work due to reasons like health issues, family responsibilities, or retirement. Among them, 33% (249,000 people) were registered with the UWV, while 430,000 were unregistered, despite being unfit for work. Legal barriers often leave these individuals without support.

The WIA and Wajong systems are plagued with errors. In 2020, 82,500 WIA applications were processed, with 12,637 appeals filed (Overheid.nl, 2020). A Trouw article in 2019 revealed that 1 in 5 Wajong cases involved errors, often wrongful denials. While appeals are possible, the process is difficult and few pursue them (Stadadvocaten.nl, 2019). Additionally, the WIA benefits are assessed based on “theoretical wage loss,” favoring higher-income individuals over those with more severe health conditions (TAF.nl, 2022).

Many chronically ill people who don’t meet eligibility criteria end up on welfare or relying on partners. With rising costs for energy, rent, and food, they often turn to food banks. Unfortunately, politicians tend to focus on larger, more visible groups, leaving smaller, vulnerable populations unsupported.

Taking action can be difficult for the chronically ill, and feelings of shame often prevent sharing their struggles. However, I hope to inspire others to speak out, as this can foster connection and support. Even if these stories only become more well-known, it can still have an impact in the long term, precisely because they are becoming more widely known.

Comparisons with the 18th Century Bokkenrijders

Social inequality, oppression, and poverty-induced stress can still lead to criminal behavior today, much like in the 18th century. I recall hearing a man on the train explain how he turned to drug dealing to provide for his children due to illness preventing him from working legally. Income inequality is rising globally (Piketty, 2014), and studies show that higher inequality correlates with more crime, partly due to lower social trust (Faaij & Boersma, 2014).

Violent crime has decreased, and punishments are less severe today. Methods like security cameras prevent crime by making criminals identifiable and deterring them through the threat of punishment (IsGeschiedenis, 2024). While protests and legal actions offer modern avenues for change, too little is done to address ongoing inequality and oppression.

The Bokkenrijders have become a symbol of resistance against social injustice, and while today’s movements—like the Arab Spring, Black Lives Matter, and labor strikes—may not be directly inspired by them, they reflect a similar defiance against oppressive power structures. These modern movements, much like the Bokkenrijders of the past, confront systemic issues such as authoritarianism, racism, and economic inequality, demanding a more just and equitable society.

This comparison shows that the Bokkenrijders’ resistance is part of a broader, ongoing human struggle against injustice. Their legacy continues to inspire contemporary movements for equality.

While the Bokkenrijders associated Satan with liberation from poverty, modern Satanists generally don't view Satan as a direct solution to financial struggles. However, some see Satan symbolically as a force of liberation from oppression. Like the Bokkenrijders, modern Satanism emphasizes personal empowerment, autonomy, and resistance against oppressive systems. Unlike the more violent depictions of Satan in the 18th century, today’s Satanism advocates for individual responsibility and self-empowerment, offering a framework for navigating societal barriers, including economic hardship. In response to challenges like poverty or dissatisfaction, Satanism can inspire individuals to take creative action—whether by seeking out a new job, starting their own business, or exploring alternative ways of thinking. In some cases, seeking legal advice or fighting against unfair government actions can provide practical solutions, such as obtaining compensation or fines for undue delays. Ultimately, Satanic philosophy encourages people to resist passivity and take ownership of their circumstances, whether that means rebelling against systems of oppression or finding practical ways to improve one's situation

If the symbolism of Satan doesn’t resonate, inspiration can come from other figures or within oneself. What matters is that it motivates action to pursue personal goals.

Conclusion

Though the Bokkenrijders’ tale may feel distant, the systemic inequality that drove them to defiance remains all too familiar. Whether through economic hardship, unaffordable housing, or rising poverty rates, many today still find themselves fighting against a system that leaves them behind. The question remains: have we truly advanced, or are we still fighting the same battle, albeit in a different form?

The Bokkenrijders may no longer ride under the cover of night, but their spirit of resistance endures. Their story challenges us to reflect on the inequalities that persist today. In embracing their spirit of resistance, we are reminded that the fight for a more just society is far from over. The Bokkenrijders' defiance serves as a timeless call to action, encouraging us to challenge oppression and work toward a world where equal opportunities for everyone prevail.

As we reflect on the Bokkenrijders' legacy, it becomes clear that their actions were not just the product of their time, but a response to the deep injustices they faced — poverty, oppression, and systemic inequality. Today, while the circumstances have evolved, many of the same issues persist: a widening gap between the wealthy and the marginalized, struggles to meet basic needs, and a society in which the system often fails those who are most vulnerable. The Bokkenrijders remind us that resistance, whether through direct action or quieter forms of survival, can be a powerful response to societal failings. Yet, their story also challenges us to question the structures of power that perpetuate inequality. In reflecting on their plight, we are reminded that the fight for justice is ongoing and that we must strive to create a world where no one is forced into such dire choices. The Bokkenrijders’ story is not just one of rebellion, but of a longing for dignity, fairness, and freedom — values that remain as vital today as they were in the 18th century. Let their legacy inspire us to push for a society where these ideals are no longer out of reach for so many. So let's never forget the importance of continuing to challenge systems of oppression and inequality, much like the Bokkenrijders did, but in ways that are more constructive and less violent.

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