Dutch Republic Essay

Discuss ways that the 17th-century Dutch Republic differed from its neighbors, telling how these differences contributed to the country's success.

The Dutch Republic was a political and economical power in 17^th century Europe. The Dutch Republic was able to create radical changes in how they ran their country, and in by taking this risk, prospered greatly. Through the distinctive way of life the Dutch lived compared to its fellow Europeans, with their prospering economy, religious acceptance, and their unique organization of political power, the Dutch were able to become a powerhouse and major factor in 17^th century Europe.

In the seventeenth century the Dutch Republic was among the elite nations in Europe at the time, at large due to their flourishing economy. At this time the Dutch had a powerful merchant class and was also the international banking center of the world. Even the Dutch florin became the international method for monetary exchange. The Dutch were able to have a favorable quality of life, without becoming wasteful. They believed that they did not need excess, and viewed poorly on those who lived over extravagantly. With this available Dutch wealth, an equally large military force arose, with a fleet that included over 10,000 ships. They were able to control shipping and major ports, strengthening their hold on Europe. Through this Dutch wealth, the arts were able to thrive

During the early seventeenth century, the Dutch became revolutionaries in religion toleration, with granting many religions toleration and freedom in the Dutch Republic. Through this the Dutch were able to benefit their economy and their diversity. Many people of different religions would flee to the Dutch Republic, knowing that they would not be persecuted, with it being their only escape. The increase of immigrants only strengthened their already flourishing economy, which was at the top of Europe at the time.

The Dutch Republic had a very unique political structure at this time in Europe. It consisted of seven provinces, which all acted independently. The provinces then chose a stadholder who would be the executive of the province, but would not be the most powerful. In this system of government, the power was able to stay with the wealthy, benefitting the bankers and merchants, of which consisted a large portion of the Dutch Republic. This was different than other European nations, many with monarchial rulers who would have either absolute rule, or have a significant part in national affairs. In the Dutch Republic the citizens were able to have control, and in doing so only benefitting themselves. In other nations citizens were limited to their involvement in political affairs, capping the effects that they could have and, in a way, capping their countries potential to prosper.

The Dutch Republic truly was a nation that had radical ideas for its time, which were a main factor in its success in 17^th century Europe. The Dutch were distinct from other nations through their economy, religious toleration, and political structure. The Dutch broke the mold in Europe, taking a risk, and a risk that benefited them greatly for their “Golden Age” reign.