9 countries that have been colonised by the Dutch
Approximately 350 years
While the Dutch colonial empire wasn't as extensive as some others, it significantly impacted the history and culture of the countries it colonized. Here are 10 countries that were once under Dutch colonial rule, along with the approximate duration of their colonization:
Indonesia
Period of Colonization: Approximately 350 years (1602-1949) The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established control over the Indonesian archipelago, exploiting its rich resources, particularly spices like cloves and nutmeg. Dutch rule was marked by exploitation, forced labor, and cultural assimilation. The Indonesian struggle for independence was long and arduous, culminating in the Dutch recognition of Indonesian sovereignty in 1949.
South Africa
Period of Colonization: Approximately 150 years (1652-1806) The Dutch East India Company established a colony at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652 as a provisioning station for ships sailing to the East Indies. Over time, the Dutch, known as the Boers or Afrikaners, expanded their territory eastward, displacing indigenous Khoisan and Bantu peoples. The Dutch colonial period in South Africa laid the foundation for the racial segregation and apartheid policies that would later dominate the country.
Suriname
Period of Colonization: Approximately 300 years (17th century - 1975) Located in South America, Suriname was a Dutch colony for centuries. The Dutch established plantations to produce sugar, coffee, and cocoa, relying heavily on enslaved African labor. The abolition of slavery in the 19th century led to economic decline and social unrest. Suriname gained independence in 1975.
Curaçao
Period of Colonization: Over 350 years (17th century - present) This Caribbean island was a key part of the Dutch West India Company's colonial empire. The Dutch established a thriving trade center on Curaçao, particularly in the slave trade. The island's strategic location and deep harbor made it a significant port for shipping and commerce. While Curaçao is no longer a formal colony, it remains a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Aruba
Period of Colonization: Over 350 years (17th century - present) Another Caribbean island, Aruba was also a Dutch colony. It was part of the Dutch West Indies and played a role in the transatlantic slave trade. The island's economy was primarily based on agriculture, salt production, and later, tourism. Similar to Curaçao, Aruba is now a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
New Netherland
Period of Colonization: Approximately 50 years (1614-1664) This Dutch colony was located on the eastern coast of North America, encompassing parts of what is now New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. The Dutch established trading posts and settlements, including New Amsterdam (later renamed New York City). However, the Dutch lost control of the region to the British in the 17th century.
Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
Period of Colonization: Approximately 150 years (1658-1948) The Dutch East India Company established a presence in Ceylon in the 17th century, primarily to control the cinnamon trade. The Dutch period was relatively short compared to the Portuguese and British colonial periods, but it left a significant impact on the island's economy and society.
Malacca
Period of Colonization: Approximately 150 years (1641-1824) The Dutch captured the strategic port city of Malacca from the Portuguese in 1641. It served as a crucial trading post for the Dutch East India Company, controlling the Strait of Malacca and the spice trade.
Taiwan
Period of Colonization: Approximately 40 years (1624-1662) The Dutch East India Company established a short-lived colony on the island of Taiwan. They built forts and trading posts, but their rule was challenged by indigenous populations and eventually ended with the arrival of the Chinese Ming dynasty.
While the Dutch colonial empire was smaller than those of Britain, France, and Spain, it had a significant impact on the history and culture of the countries it colonized.
The legacy of Dutch colonialism, including its exploitation of resources and people, continues to shape the world today.
About the Creator
Moharif Yulianto
a freelance writer and thesis preparation in his country, youtube content creator, facebook
Keep reading
More stories from Moharif Yulianto and writers in FYI and other communities.
6 Colonial Powers and Their Empires
Motivations for Colonialism Colonialism, the practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically, was driven by a combination of factors: Economic Gain Resource Acquisition: Colonies provided access to valuable resources like gold, silver, spices, timber, and minerals. Trade Routes: Colonial powers sought to control trade routes and establish monopolies on valuable goods. Labor Exploitation: Colonizers often exploited the labor of indigenous populations, particularly through systems like slavery and indentured servitude. Political Power and Prestige National Glory: Expanding empires was seen as a way to increase a nation's power and prestige on the world stage. Strategic Advantage: Colonies could serve as military bases and supply lines, enhancing a nation's geopolitical influence. Religious and Cultural Influence Missionary Zeal: Many European powers sought to spread Christianity and Western culture to colonized territories. Civilizing Mission: The belief that European powers had a duty to "civilize" and "modernize" colonized peoples. Technological Superiority Military Advantage: European powers had advanced military technology, which gave them a significant advantage over many indigenous populations. Navigation and Exploration: Improved shipbuilding and navigational techniques enabled European powers to explore and colonize distant lands. It's important to note that the motivations for colonialism were complex and often intertwined. While economic gain was a primary driver, factors such as national pride, religious zeal, and the desire to spread civilization also played significant roles. The legacy of colonialism continues to shape the world today, with many former colonies struggling with the economic, social, and political consequences of past exploitation and oppression.
By Moharif Yuliantoabout a year ago in FYI
3 Impossible Planets That Defy the Laws of Astronomy
For as long as humans have looked up at the stars, we’ve tried to make sense of our place in the universe. We’ve found thousands of exoplanets orbiting distant suns, and we thought we had a pretty good handle on how they formed.
By Areeba Umair4 days ago in FYI
How to Succeed at the Benson Directory®
Congratulations and welcome to the Benson Directory® employee #22391! As our newest call handler, you will have the privilege of speaking with dozens of unique and interesting people on a daily basis as well as the opportunity to earn bonuses for high performance. Contained within this handbook you will find a set of ease to follow instructions designed to help you settle in to your new role and begin paving the way to success.
By S. A. Crawford4 days ago in Fiction
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.