In the late 16th century a period of Dutch history began that came to be known as the 'Golden Age' for its great economic prosperity and cultural fruition. Building upon earlier economic success, the United Provinces [basis for the Netherlands today] became the most powerful commercial and maritime country on the Continent, with Amsterdam the financial centre of Europe. Dutch vessels transported most of Europe's cargo.
The merchant fleet known as the Dutch East India Company was formed in 1602. It quickly monopolised key shipping and trade routes east of Africa's Cape of Good Hope and west of the Strait of Magellan, making it the largest trading company of the 17th century. The Dutch East India Company imported precious spices and Asian luxury items such as Chinese porcelain. The company was almost as powerful as a sovereign state - it could raise its own armed forces and establish colonies.
Its sister, the Dutch West India Company, traded with Africa and the Americas and was the very centre of the American slave trade. Seamen working for both companies discovered or conquered lands including Tasmania, New Zealand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Mauritius. English explorer stumbled on the island of Manhattan in 1609 as he searched for a Northwest Passage, snd Dutch settlers named it New Amsterdam.
Perhaps it was inevitable, given their competing interests around the world: England and the United Provinces went to war in 1652. One of the main issues was the English attempt to muscle in on the Dutch merchant fleet. The period was one of drama and political intrigue as the English and Dutch went from enemies to allies to enemies again. Both countries entered a hotch-potch of alliances with Spain, France and Sweden in an effort to get an upper hand. The navies fought most of the battles but often had no idea if ships encountered could be condsidered friends or foe. During one round of treaties, the Dutch agreed to give New Amsterdam to the English (who promptly renamed it New York) in return for Surinam in South America.
I had no idea that the Dutch first settled Manhattan. I wondered if there was a connection between Harlem and Haarlem. I guess so. Though I've never been to New York, apparently there are lots of streets and other areas with Dutch names. An interesting bit of history. Not sure the Dutch won in their swap for Surinam (which is where I lived as a child).
posted by Whitney @ 12:24 AM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home