United East India Company - its powerful influence

Culture and History tour in Amsterdam

Tour Price : €100-200 Duration : 1-3 hours Languages: Dutch, English, German Discount: 10% discount already factored in.

During this tour we will discuss the growth of the Dutch United East India Company, the first multinational, stock-issuing company in the world. We will trace the beginnings of modern capitalism by this company that was established in 1602 and was active until the 1800’s. We will take you on an adventurous voyage with stories of world trade.

The Dutch United East India Company, a.k.a VOC, functioned much like a sovereign state. It had the authority to issue stock and employed its own army and was able to make war and sign treatises. Here was the crowning glory of capitalistic practices, where greed, corruption and monopoly were prevalent features throughout its existence. The VOC was also the only Dutch company that was allowed to trad with the East. For such expensive expeditions to the East, an extensive reserve of capital and hardware was necessary. 

Amsterdam was one of the centers where the VOC operated, and the Amsterdam chamber of the company began a practice of shareholding and stock trading. The army was there to function as the sole source of protection of its many ships, supplies, and colonies that came under its control. Inexperienced men from abroad became sailors and soldiers, looking for adventure in far off lands. The promise of adventure was countered by harsh realities, characterized by disease, hunger, thirst and other hardships. I have lots of stories to tell about how life was on board.

Rich merchants continued to fill their pockets and amassed an enormous amount of wealth. The VOC brought enormous wealth to Amsterdam. For nearly 2 centuries, the company outdid the trade efforts of other European nations, enjoyed a near monopoly of the spice industry, coffee, tea, textiles, and other products from the East. Its eventual collapse was precipitated by rampant corruption and debt. The Golden Age of its period of trade came to an end as a result of its mismanagement. We invite you to join us in Amsterdam, and we will guide you through this exciting history of the first  true capitalist enterprise that lasted for nearly 2 centuries.  

Tour prices may vary according to number of hours, starting point and group size. Children are very welcome, by the way. I usually take groups with 2 to 10 persons. Extra cost: tram or bus tickets.

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