Dutch Golden Age

The Golden Age (Dutch: Gouden Eeuw, Dutch pronunciation: [ˈɣʌudən ˈeːw]) was a period in Dutch history, roughly spanning the 17th century, in which Dutch trade, science, military and art were among the most acclaimed in the world. The first half is characterised by the Eighty Years' War till 1648. The Golden Age went on in peace time during the Dutch Republic till the end of the century. In 1568 the Seven Provinces that signed the Union of Utrecht (Dutch: Unie van Utrecht) started a rebellion against Philip II of Spain which led to the Eighty Years' War. Before the Low Countries could be completely reconquered, war between England and Spain broke out, forcing the Spanish troops under Philip II to halt their advances. Meanwhile, Philip's...