The Netherlands, in the Words of the Dutch

The Netherlands and water

The Netherlands faces the North Sea; without the work of its engineers, the western half of the country might be under water

Compared with military defence, our defences against water are given greater weight

Dutch diplomacy

Always seeking a balance among France, Britain and Germany

We pursue neutrality, always trying to keep the country out of the rivalries of three powerful but perpetually clashing neighbours

What Dutch prosperity rests on

Not agriculture, but commerce

The Netherlands was Europe's merchant — our ships sailed to the shores of the Mediterranean

This was the economic foundation of the Dutch Golden Age

Dutch expansion

Our commercial reach soon extended beyond Europe

Trafficking people from Africa to the Americas

From Africa to the Americas to Asia

These overseas settlements gave the Dutch an interest in other animals and plants

Maria: drew a great many animals and plants

Although the Netherlands has had armed conflicts, it also works hard to reach consensus

Not only on international issues

It also shows in how the Dutch resolve conflicts among themselves

The Dutch distrust of authoritarianism and totalitarianism

From the very beginning, the Prince of Orange set up institutions that limited power

Members of the House of Orange also tried to establish an absolute monarchy, but it was nipped in the bud

In the 20th century they became kings, but with limited powers

The whole country celebrates the King's birthday, and celebrates Dutch championships

This is the occasional outburst of Dutch nationalism

Dutch tolerance

Tolerance of people of different faiths and ethnicities

At many points in history, this tolerance came into play

But this tolerance is also a form of indifference:

In the coalition government the Netherlands has just formed, some ministers make no secret of their xenophobia

Dutch directness

Very direct, no careful hints, no effort to spare the other person's feelings

We get straight to the point

If the owner of a house doesn't want other people parking bicycles there, and you see that, you must comply; if he has said so, then you absolutely may not park there.

The Netherlands in the 20th century

From 5 million in 1900, to 10 million in 2000, to 15 million now

One of the most densely populated countries in the world

Facing Britain, France and Germany, the Netherlands tried hard to stay neutral; in 1940–1950, the German occupation made us realise that for a small country, neutrality is impossible

In 1949 the Netherlands joined NATO, and it became a member of the EU