IV.

History

Amsterdam, chartered as a city in 1300, became a member of the Hanseatic League in 1369. In the 17th century, after the successful conclusion of the Dutch Wars of Independence against Spain, Amsterdam became the commercial centre of northern Europe. The city retained its dominance until the late 18th century, when trade declined as a result of the silting of the Zuider Zee and the British blockade during the Napoleonic Wars. In 1810 Napoleon I incorporated the country into the French Empire, but after his downfall the Netherlands regained its independence and Amsterdam became the official capital. In the latter part of the 19th century, commercial activity revived with the opening of the North Sea and North Holland canals. During World War II Amsterdam was occupied by the German army for five years. The people suffered great hardship. Modern rebuilding to repair massive bomb damage after the war stimulated the development of the petrochemical industry and other industries associated with the harbour.