The Dutch Golden Age – How the Dutch Republic Became so Prosperous in the 17th Century

In the history of the Netherlands the Golden Age is an important time for the rise of the Dutch Republic in the 17th century. The Dutch Golden Age (Gouden Eeuw) commensed when the Dutch provinces led by Holland were revolting against Spain in the so-called Dutch Revolt. In the Dutch history this revolt is also know as the Eighty Years' War (Tachtigjarige Oorlog) and took place in the Low Countries. William of Orange (Willem van Oranje) started the uprising in 1568 and was assisted by the Sea Beggars (Watergeuzen) to fight off the Spanish. Spain fought back but went bankrupt several times. Spanish troops mutineed and sacked Antwerp. This was known as the Spanish Fury (Spaanse Furie). As a result of this many wealthy merchants went to Amsterdam. In 1581 there was the Act of Abjuration (Plakkaat van Verlatinghe). In 1588 the Dutch Republic (Republiek der Zeven Verenigde Nederlanden) was established.

Early 17th century the Dutch East India Company (VOC – Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie) and the Dutch West India Company (WIC – West-Indische Compagnie) were established and brought great wealth to the Dutch Republic. Yet, many people suffered. The WIC was responsible for a significant part in the transatlantic slave trade shipped over half a million slaves from Africa to the Americas.

The 17th century was also the time of the Scientific Revolution. Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens pioneered in his research of the universe. Around 30 cities became interconnected by a network of artificial water ways. Also, large parts of land were laid dry and so the Dutch reclaimed land. The Dutch word for laying lakes dry is called poldering. A piece of reclaimed land is called polder. During the Golden Age many paintings were completed. Dutch painters as Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer made their works in the 17th century.

After the Dutch war against Spain was over several Anglo-Dutch wars took place. Most disastrous was the year of 1672 which was called Disaster Year (Rampjaar). After 1672 the decline of the Dutch Golden Age became visable and some historians name this period the Silver Age (Zilveren Eeuw).
History Hustle presents: The Dutch Golden Age – How the Dutch Republic Became so Prosperous in the 17th Century.


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IMAGES
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MUSIC
"Clenched Teeth" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
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"Mesmerize" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
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"Indore" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
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"Past the Edge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
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SOUNDS
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Thanks to Lennart for borrowing his props!

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