West Indische Compagnie

The West Indische Compagnie, or West India Company, was a Dutch trading company established in 1621 to oversee Dutch interests in the Caribbean and the Americas. It operated as a commercial enterprise that engaged in trade, colonization, and military activities, aiming to profit from the Caribbean's valuable commodities like sugar, spices, and slaves. The company had chartered rights from the Dutch government, enabling it to conduct trade, establish colonies, and defend Dutch interests in the region. It played a significant role in expanding Dutch influence during the 17th century, particularly in areas like Suriname and the Dutch Antilles, until it dissolved in 1791.