The Dutch Republic

In 17th century Europe, the Dutch republic began to make some changes from the 'normal' way to run a country. While most countries around them were absolutists, the Dutch created a republic. The Dutch also were tolerant of many religions, unlike many neighboring countries, creating a safe and comfortable place for many people to come and live. The Dutch republic was able to become the most successful country in Europe because they let go of absolutism and instead created a republic that provided the most stable economy in Europe, religious toleration, and the highest living standards in all of Europe.

The government system in The Dutch Republic was exceedingly different from other governments at that time. They would not allow for a centralized leader, but instead had elected stadholders that governed each province. While these people were technically representatives that were ‘in charge,’ the middle class people of The Dutch Republic were very, very powerful and never let the stadholders get out of hand. Many provinces, in fact, all picked the same man; William of Orange was chosen by six out of seven of the provinces, and went on to try to centralize the power to himself. The powerful merchant class, however, prevented this from occurring. A republic ensured that the people received what they needed, because they were practically in charge, and it also was relaxed enough that it let them focus on other more important things, like the future of the country. The government that was formed was one of the many things that the made The Dutch Republic stand out and excel in the 17^th century.

            The Dutch republic was a comfort zone to many refugees fleeing from other countries. These people fled from a lack of religious toleration in their home land, which was abundant in The Dutch Republic. Sometimes the Republic even offered incentives to some religious groups, and when one religion found safety there, others soon followed. The sudden raises in population meant more money for the republic, which was an instant boost for their success.

            All of these policies and more provided a relaxing and calm place for many. The Dutch Republic was well rounded and successful in many other areas, including agriculture and their money system. The economy of the Dutch was the most stable in all of Europe; yet another factor drawing people towards it. They had successful banks and a widespread currency, and yet still managed to make decent amounts of money. Every single aspect of the republic seemed to draw more and more people.

            It was these differences that led to the success of the Dutch Republic. If they were not so different from the brutal conditions of other European countries, then there would be no need to move there. The Dutch Republic was a safe house that offered everything that other countries could not, and this is what gave it the best reputation in all of Europe.