17th-century Netherlands

The 17th-century Netherlands, often called the Dutch Golden Age, was a time of great economic, artistic, and scientific growth. The Dutch became a major maritime power, establishing a vast trade empire through their advanced ships and financial systems. They excelled in painting, producing artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer, and made significant innovations in science and cartography. Society was characterized by relative religious tolerance and a thriving middle class. Politically, they were a confederation of independent provinces, managing to maintain independence from larger neighbors like Spain and England. Overall, it was a period of prosperity, innovation, and cultural achievement.