Dutch Discoveries

Understanding Dutch Education – Levels and Curriculum The Dutch education system is one that is highly valued, and it is considered to be among the best in the world. But like all education systems, it can be difficult to understand. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the levels and curriculum of the Dutch education system so you can understand it better. At the core of the Dutch education system is the learning program which follows a nationwide curriculum and is divided into primary, secondary and higher education. Within this structure, educational institutions may introduce their own curricula, but they must also adhere to certain government guidelines. Primary Education Children in the Netherlands typically start their schooling at age 4, when they begin their primary education. Dutch primary schools are either openbaar (government-funded) or bijzondere (private). Regardless of their type, all primary schools in the Netherlands must provide a broadly based curricul...

Exploring Dutch Science and Research – Pioneering Achievements From the inner workings of the human mind to the furthest reaches of our universe, Dutch science and research have made their mark on many of the great advances throughout history. From the 16 th century Dutch scholars who laid the groundwork for modern physiology, to the modern chemists, biochemists, and physicists that have pushed the boundaries of current scientific knowledge, Dutch science has played a fundamental role in driving human progress. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the world-changing research and scientific discoveries made by Dutch innovators. Johannes Kepler and the Laws of Planetary Motion Johannes Kepler may have been born in Germany in 1571, but it was in the Netherlands that he undertook much of his life's work. Upon moving to the University of Leiden in the early 1600s, Kepler dedicated himself to the study of astronomy and the application of mathematics to the understanding of th...

Analyzing Dutch Media and its Relationship to Politics One of the key functions of the media is to provide information to the public. But, how does the media shape our understanding of the political events and issues that potentially affect our lives, particularly in a country such as the Netherlands? In the Netherlands, traditional, left-leaning and right-wing newspapers all exist, creating a sometimes-contentious relationship between politics and the media. In this article, we will analyze how the media and politics interact in the Netherlands. First, it is worth noting that in the Netherlands media outlets generally show support for the right-wing parties versus the left-wing parties. This is a major shift from the past when the media would generally support the larger scale, left-leaning parties. This shift in media support can partly be attributed to the government's emphasis on pro-market and free market policies, which the right-wing parties favor. In addition, the media in...

Examining Dutch Art and its Relationship to the Environment The Netherlands has a long and rich history of art, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography, film, and even performance art. In addition to its world-renowned galleries and impressive public art collections, the country is home to many innovative architects, Dutch masters, and budding contemporary artists. But Dutch art is more than just aesthetically pleasing visuals; each artist is deeply linked to the environment, culture, and history of the Netherlands. Dutch art is a reflection of Dutch society, with its mix of social, political, and economic influences. From the Dutch Golden Age and the Expressionism of the early 20th century to the postmodernist art of today, the Netherlands has contributed significant contributions to the world of art and continues to evolve. But how does the environment play into Dutch art? To understand the relationship between Dutch art and its environment, we must first explore its ric...

Discussing Dutch Nationalism and Politics of Identity Dutch nationalism is an ongoing and shifting concept that has long been of great interest to the people of the Netherlands. This idea centers around the Dutch identity, how it is seen and understood by the people, and what it means for the future of the country. But what exactly is Dutch nationalism, and what impact has it had on the politics of identity in the Netherlands? One way to define Dutch nationalism is to look at the history of the country. Dutch nationalism is the shared idea of Dutch culture and national identity, which was forged in the 19th century when the kingdom of the Netherlands fought for independence from the rule of the Spanish. Since then, the Netherlands has seen a gradual shift away from its traditional identity to one which is highly conscious of its history and its place as a global player. At the same time, Dutch nationalism has also been influenced by the political philosophies of democracy and libera...

The Impact of Dutch Social Movements and their Legacy We often don't think of Dutch social movements when we think of Dutch history - we often forget about them in comparison to the Western European nation's many landmarks and attractions. However, they played an incredibly important role - movements such as feminism, environmentalism, and education reform in Dutch society were majorly influential in pushing change. The fight for women's rights in the Netherlands is a story that can be traced all the way back to 1870, when the first women's rights movement began. This push for gender equality saw a number of changes, including the right to vote in 1917, the creation of a female-led political party in 1918, and of course the modern feminist movement of the 1970s. The environmentalist and conservationist movements have been an integral part of Dutch society since their introduction during the 1960s. Highlights of their impressive campaign included the banning of plastic ...

Evaluating Dutch Sports and Their Impact on the Netherlands Sports have long been an integral part of Dutch culture. They are a way for Dutch people to connect with each other, stay healthy and make social connections. But why are sports so popular in the Netherlands? What are the benefits of Dutch sports and how have they changed over the years? This article looks at the history of Dutch sports and their current impact on the Netherlands. The history of Dutch sports dates back to the 1500s when the Dutch established the first sports clubs. It was during this time that sports such as football, hockey, cricket and rugby began to be popular in the country. Over the years, new sports have been added to the list as the Dutch have become more open to recreational activities. Today, the most popular sport in the Netherlands is football. It is the most widely attended and watched sport in the country with millions of people attending matches every year. The popularity of football can be at...

Exploring Dutch Cultural Productions – Theatre, Music, Film and TV With its rich history and culture, the Netherlands is a country that has produced some of the most fascinating cultural productions. From theater, music, film, and television, Dutch culture influences our lives in so many ways. In this article, we'll explore the different forms of media and art that have come out of the country, and why the Dutch are so talented when it comes to putting together art and entertainment! The Role of Theater in Dutch Culture Theater is an important part of Dutch culture, and is closely intertwined with the country's history. Dutch theater has a long tradition, and its roots can be traced back to the 16th century. Theaters have historically been used as a way of expressing one's feelings and ideas, as well as providing entertainment and educational experiences. Today, theater is still a popular form of entertainment and education in the Netherlands. There are hundreds of theat...

Understanding Dutch Traditional Crafts and their Role in Society When you think of Dutch culture, many things come to mind: its charming canals, its iconic wooden shoes, the great variety of its sandwiches, its vibrant art scene, and of course its traditional crafts. But what are these traditional crafts and what makes them so special? What role do they play in Dutch society? Dutch traditional crafts have ancient roots, and represent a time when each trade was handed down for generations. This rich history has left its mark on the culture, and the artisans of today have stayed largely true to their core methods, materials and designs. Textiles, pottery, jewelry, glassware, furniture - the list of distinctive Dutch handicrafts is vast and varied. Hop Utensils, Delftware and Gouda Cheese When looking into traditional Dutch crafts, there are a few staples that come to mind. Hop utensils, Delftware and Gouda cheese are particularly famed creations. Hop or beer brewing and drinking wer...

Immigration in the Netherlands – At Home and Abroad The Netherlands is a small country with a population of 17.2 million and a land area of just over 41,000 square kilometers. While it is a mostly overlooked country when it comes to population size, its diversity and welcoming multicultural nature make it an attractive destination for immigrants looking for a better life. This article will take a closer look at immigration in the Netherlands; we will explore some of the reasons why the Netherlands is an attractive destination for immigrants, take a look at the varying policies governing immigration, and outline some of the major challenges and achievements related to flux of immigrants into the country. Irina Iriser @ Unsplash Why Immigrants Come to the Netherlands The Netherlands has been a desirable destination for immigrants since roughly the 1970s, as the country opened its gates to foreign workers, with a policy that allowed for the absorpti...

Exploring Dutch Destinations for Ecotourism Have you ever dreamed of exploring amazing destinations that combine nature, culture and adventure all in one package? For those seeking an unforgettable experience, look no further than the Netherlands - a country with a wealth of destinations for ecotourism. The Netherlands is a small but densely populated country on the north-western edge of Europe. It’s best-known for its tulips, its windmills, its blue-cheese and its low-lying countryside dotted with canals, or ‘grachten’. It’s also a country with a deep appreciation for its natural environment, making it a great place for eco-tourism. Evan Sanchez @ Unsplash Eco-tourism is defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people”. The Netherlands is a great country for this type of responsible travel; its small area provides an exciting, close-to-nature escape. Birdwatching in the N...

Examining Dutch Art and Our Relationship to it The Netherland's rich history has resulted in a plethora of art styles, each with its own unique nuances, colors, and forms, lending itself to her vast cultural and artistic heritage. Dutch art has also, in turn, had a tremendous influence on all of the major art movements that have taken place throughout the centuries and continues to inspire a generation of new artists, designers, and creators. But what exactly is Dutch art, why do we appreciate it, and how has it formed our relationship to it? The Beginnings of Dutch Art The Netherland's artistic history can be traced all the way back to the Middle Ages, where works from the Byzantine court, Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance periods have all been found. In the 15th and 16th centuries, humanistic art blossomed, influencing portraiture, religious iconography, and everyday imagery. This style is further intertwined with Dutch Golden Age, which began in the late 16th century and...

Understanding Dutch Diplomacy and the Politics of the Netherlands Tucked away in a corner of northwest Europe is a small but influential nation known as the Netherlands. The Dutch have a rich and storied history as well as many unique features which define their politics and diplomacy and this article will discuss those facets in detail. The most noteworthy and recognizable aspect of Dutch politics is that the country is led by a constitutional monarchy, meaning a royal head of state is bound to uphold a set of rules set in place by a constitution. The current monarchy is led by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. This monarchy has very little power and is closely monitored by the Dutch parliament, ensuring the state remains a democracy at its core. Jon Eckert @ Unsplash The Dutch parliament is comprised of two chambers - the first chamber, or the house of representatives and the second chamber, or the senate. The government is divided into fiv...

The Effects of the Dutch East India Trade on the Influenced Nations When we think of the early Dutch East India trading companies, we can't help but be amazed by the impact they had on the world. From the very first voyage in 1602, the Dutch quickly rose to become one of the most powerful colonial powers in the world, utilizing their large navy and trading networks to reach far-off lands. But what kind of impacts did this expansive trading network have on the nations the Dutch trading expedition visited? Let’s take a closer look at the effects of the Dutch East India trade on the nations they visited and see how their influence extended far beyond the influence of money. Branding of Dutch Culture and Doctrines When traveling to distant locations, the Dutch traders had to rely heavily on the cultural norms of the natives. It was vital for the members of the crew to gain the trust of the people they met and to make sure that the goods they exchanged were fair and equitable. This me...

Dutch Shipping and Maritime Trade – a Historical Overview The Netherlands is a nation of seafarers and explorers. Throughout Dutch history, Dutch shipping and maritime trade have been integral to the development of the country’s economy, culture, and power. In this article, we’ll take a look back at the history of Dutch shipping and maritime trade and explore their impact on the shaping of the Dutch nation. Early Maritime Traders The Dutch began trading along the North Sea during the Middle Ages as early as the 12th century. As the Dutch economy gradually expanded, maritime trade and seafaring activities became more common. Ships would travel to the North Sea, Dover, and the Bay of Biscay in search of fish, spices, and valuable goods from other countries. The marine routes from and to the Dutch cities of Middelburg, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam multiplied and become more popular, leading to more trading opportunities between the Dutch and other European countries. Trade with far off mark...

The Battle of the Dutch East India Company and Their Rivals The Dutch East India Company (DEIC), also known as the VOC, was one of the most influential companies in the world for more than two centuries. During its heyday, it monopolized trade, exploration, colonization, and even finance in Europe, Africa and Asia, and even played a major role in determining the course of European history. As its influence grew, it soon found itself at odds with rival powers. In the battle for supremacy, both sides showed remarkable courage and tenacity. But only one could prevail. In this article, we'll explore the struggle between the Dutch East India Company and its rivals and examine how the conflict shaped the destiny of the world. We'll also ask the question: Who ultimately won the battle? Michele Mescolin @ Unsplash The Rise of the Dutch East India Company The Dutch East India Company was founded in 1602, shortly after the Dutch gained independence ...

The Impact of Foreign Investment on the Dutch Economy The economic impact of foreign investment in the Netherlands has been astounding in recent decades. After receiving significant amounts of both public and private investments from numerous sources around the world, the Dutch economy is now at the forefront of the international business landscape. From the financial sector to the manufacturing sector, the effects of this influx of capital have been highly beneficial for the economy as a whole. In this article, we will take a closer look at the impact that foreign investment has had on the Dutch economy and the ways in which it has helped to shape the country's economic success. First and foremost, it is important to point out that the Netherlands has long been viewed as an attractive location for foreign investment due to the country's stable and open economy. The Netherlands boasts a highly-educated and skilled workforce, a relatively well-developed financial sector, and an...

Understanding Dutch Telecommunications and Technology Have you ever wondered how the Dutch keep up with modern technology? In a country that is known by its flat horizons, and the world’s most amazing cycling paths, an interesting perspective on the country’s science and technological competencies is at hand. Being one of the most important countries in Europe for research, innovation and technology, the Netherlands has managed to keep its pace with the world’s cutting-edge technology. In this post, I’m going to give you a comprehensive overview of the Dutch telecommunications infrastructure, and the Netherlands’ contribution to the development of new technologies. From telecommunications to innovative technological initiatives, a growing number of Dutch people are steadily entering the world’s tech scene. Patrick Schneider @ Unsplash How Dutch Telecommunications Really Work The Netherlands have established a strong and reliable telecommunications...

Exploring Agricultural and Agricultural Economics in the Netherlands Agriculture has been an integral part of the Dutch economy for centuries. The Netherlands is now the second largest agricultural exporter in the world, and its agricultural sector has become a model of productivity and efficiency. But what are the factors that led to its success? And what implications does its success have for the wider agricultural economics of Europe? In this article, we'll explore the history of Dutch agriculture, the agricultural practices and technologies that have made the Netherlands a leader in agricultural output, and the country's contributions to the field of agricultural economics. The Long History of Dutch Agriculture The Netherlands has a long history of agricultural production. Archeological evidence suggests that hunting and gathering were important economic activities in the region since prehistoric times. Agriculture was introduced when the country was settled sometime in t...

Discussing the Impact of the Dutch East India Company From the 1600s to the 1800s, the Dutch East India Company, also referred to as the VOC, shaped the course of what later became known as the Netherlands. The VOC was one of the world's first transnational corporations, and its actions and decisions in Asia had enormous implications for what the Dutch eventually became. In this article, we'll explore the history of the Dutch East India Company and how it has shaped modern Dutch society. The Early Years of the Dutch East India Company In the mid-1600s, the Dutch Republic was emerging as an important European power. After the Eighty Years' War, the Dutch had broken away from Spanish rule and were now looking to colonize and thrive on the world stage. A group of Amsterdam merchants and financiers banded together to form the Dutch East India Company in 1602. This new organization, backed by the Dutch government, was formed to establish trading posts in the Indies and exploit...