Title: Netherlands History and Timeline Overview
Headings: The Netherlands
The Netherlands
Timeline and History Overview

Content: Their leader was Willem of Orange and in 1581 the Republic of the United Netherlands was formed. Windmills
During the 17th century the Netherlands became an international power known for its strong navy. The Dutch empire expanded throughout the world through various colonies on nearly every continent. Also during this time, the arts in Netherlands was at its peak with notable artists such at Rembrandt and Vermeer. In later years, Dutch power declined. Wars with Spain, France, and England weakened the country. In the 1900s, the Netherlands tried to stay neutral during both World Wars. They managed to avoid getting involved in the First World War, but in World War II they were occupied by Germany. The Dutch Jews were almost wiped out by the Germans. Over 75 percent of the 140,000 Jewish people that lived in the Netherlands were killed by the Germans as part of the Holocaust.