Life after the Dutch Revolt and Its Impact on the Future

Since the late 16th century, the Dutch Republic and the history of the Netherlands have been entwined with the consequences of the Dutch Revolt. After decades of Spanish rule and Catholic domination, Dutch rebels fought for autonomy and in the end, independence.

But what happened after the Dutch Revolt and its aftermath? In this article, we’ll explore what life was life for the Dutch people afterwards and how the Dutch Revolt has impacted the modern world today.

A Nation Established

Following the Dutch Revolt, the United Provinces of the Netherlands was established in 1581, which led to the Allies of the Netherlands gaining freedom from Spanish authority. This freedom meant the Netherlands was a nation in its own right and would become increasingly more powerful over the centuries.
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The monarchy of the United Provinces was not established until 1815, when William of Orange was made King. This period saw the start of rapid expansion as the Netherlands became dedicated to trading and began to explore and discover lands abroad.

Global Influence and Exploration

While the Spanish were known for their explorations of the ‘New World’, the Dutch were the major players in exploration of the ‘East Indies’. The East Indies trading route was the main route for spices and other eastern produce. Dutch colonies were founded in the area, such as Indonesia (formally Dutch East Indies).

The Dutch also became involved in major trading operations in Japan, Taiwan and South Africa and also farmed slaves in Suriname and Guyana. This period of exploration and growth lead to the Golden Age of the Netherlands, a time in which their culture, trade, military and science flourished.

The Golden Age and its Legacy

The Dutch Golden Age saw the Netherlands become one of the most affluent countries, behind only the United Kingdom and France at the time. This was due to their successful trading and exploration of the East Indies and the New World.

The Dutch were at the forefront of developments in science and art, with many famous Dutch painters during the Golden Age. Their scientific advances during this period also meant they became a leader in trade, banking and navigation.

The legacy of the Dutch Golden Age is evident today in the country’s commitment to liberalism, humanism and the development of international trade and standards.
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The Dutch Revolt and the Modern World

The outcome of the Dutch Revolt has been of great importance in both shaping the country’s culture and its place in the modern world. The rebels of the Dutch Revolt left a lasting legacy that can still be felt today.

It has defined the debates about national identity and religion in the country. It's also affected the debate on multiculturalism and the need for greater religious freedom.

The Dutch Revolt has also been of great importance in shaping the country’s economic and trading system. Key elements of Dutch trading, banking, and navigation have come from the exploration and trading operations of the 17th century.

The Dutch centre of diplomacy during the period was in The Hague, which still holds much of the country’s power in the political and legal world today.

The legacy of the Dutch Revolt has been felt around the world, in countries that it traded with, explored and colonised. It has been key in affecting the organisations, political and economic structures, and cultures of many modern countries, particularly in Africa and the Caribbean.

Question

In what ways has the Dutch Revolt impacted the modern world?

The Dutch Revolt has had a lasting impact on the modern world. It has defined debates on national identity and religion, impacted the country’s economy and trading system, and left an indelible mark on the organisations and cultures of countries it has explored and traded with.