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Beginning of the Decline
Success breeds jealousy and, in the case of the United Provinces, two countries in particular were determined to see an end to its success.
| England was trying to create its own commercial empire at this time so Dutch competition was very unwelcome. France, encouraged by Colbert, was also attempting to extend its power overseas. In addition, Louis XIV was determined to destroy the United
Provinces for two personal reasons - firstly because it was a republic, and secondly because it was Protestant. |
Between 1652 and 1678 the Dutch were at war with the English and the French at sea and on land. By 1678, despite considerable successes by Admiral van Tromp and Admiral de Ruyter, the Dutch had been defeated, even if their small republic remained intact. From this time onward, the Dutch Republic declined, although slowly, at the expense of the British* and the French. Dutch sea power was finally destroyed in 1784 by
Britain.
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British* After the unification of England and Scotland in 1707 we talk of Britain not England.
The British Union Flag amalgamates the three national flags of England, Scotland and Ireland. |
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©
Shirley Burchill, Nigel Hughes, Richard Gale and
Keith Woodall 2007 |
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