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The History of Netherlands

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In the 15th century the nation of Netherlands was just one of the provinces of the empire of Spain. The province was grouped in with lands that are now associated with Luxembourg, Belgium, France, and Germany. A long series of wars then happened between the different provinces and the nation-state of Spain. In the 17th century the Dutch government finally declared independence from the Spanish government. And at this point was when the nation of Netherlands really found their two historical footholds in the world. The first was their power in their Navy. Because of their location along the North Sea - as well as the natural bay that is created by their own land - the power of the military force on the sea by Netherlands was not matched for a while. Because of this military power on the sea, the Dutch merchants were also able to gain immense ground in the trade with other countries in Europe and outside of the continent of Europe.

During the late 17th century, and the 18th century the nations of Belgium and Luxembourg were created out of the nation of Netherlands. The most recent historical significance of the Dutch nation happened in World War I and II. Because of their proximity to Germany, Netherlands had to make a stand. And the stand they chose to make was to remain neutral. This worked for them during the first World War, but during the second World War the nation of Netherlands was one of the first that were occupied by the Nazi regime that came out of nation of Germany. During this second World War, Netherlands were forced to join the alliance side of the war and has one of the strongest presences of escaping Jews, including the famous family of the young girl Anne Frank.

Next Page: The Geography of Netherlands

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