The Dutch in the Early Modern World

A History of a Global Power

On 6 June the book The Dutch in the Early Modern World. A History of a Global Power, written by Dr David Onnekink (History of International Relations) and Gijs Rommelse, will be published by Cambridge University Press.

Emerging at the turn of the seventeenth century, the Dutch Republic rose to become a powerhouse of economic growth, artistic creativity, military innovation, religious tolerance and intellectual development. This is the first textbook to present this period of early modern Dutch history in a global context. It makes an active use of illustrations, objects, personal stories and anecdotes to present a lively overview of Dutch global history that is solidly grounded in sources and literature.

Early modern global expansion

Focusing on themes that resonate with contemporary concerns, such as overseas exploration, war, slavery, migration, identity and racism, this volume charts the multiple ways in which the Dutch were connected with the outside world. It serves as an engaging and accessible introduction to Dutch history as well as a case study in early modern global expansion.

Dr. David Onnekink

David Onnekink

David Onnekink is a historian, and also connected to Institutions for Open Societies - an interdisciplinary research area of Utrecht University focused on the development and expansion of healthy open societies everywhere.