The Dirty Secret of Early Modern Capitalism: The Global Reach of the Dutch Arms Trade, Warfare and Mercenaries in the Seventeenth Century

This book explores how the Dutch accumulation of wealth was linked to their involvement in warfare, challenging the traditional Marxist understanding of capitalists as middle-class exploiters. It shows how capitalism has often thrived best when its practitioners are ruthless and ignore the human cost of their search for riches.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate relationship between the Dutch accumulation of immense wealth and their profound involvement in warfare. By meticulously charting the Dutch empire's expansive global footprint, it uncovers the intricate tapestry of Dutch participation in the international arms trade and their active involvement in conflicts both within their borders and across the world. Through this comprehensive exploration, the book raises thought-provoking questions about the interplay between capitalism and human suffering. It challenges the traditional Marxist portrayal of capitalists as mere middle-class exploiters, suggesting that lower-class Dutch soldiers and sailors possessed a much greater agency in their pursuit of economic gain. By harnessing their skills that were highly sought after, these individuals sought to navigate the complexities of the capitalist system and improve their own livelihoods. This nuanced perspective sheds light on the complex dynamics of power and exploitation, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on the historical trajectory of the Dutch empire and the role of ordinary individuals in shaping its course.

This captivating book delves into the intricate relationship between the Dutch accumulation of immense wealth and their profound involvement in warfare.

By meticulously charting the Dutch empire's expansive global footprint, it uncovers the intricate tapestry of Dutch participation in the international arms trade and their active involvement in conflicts both within their borders and across the world.

Through this comprehensive exploration, the book raises thought-provoking questions about the interplay between capitalism and human suffering.

It challenges the traditional Marxist portrayal of capitalists as mere middle-class exploiters, suggesting that lower-class Dutch soldiers and sailors possessed a much greater agency in their pursuit of economic gain.

By harnessing their skills that were highly sought after, these individuals sought to navigate the complexities of the capitalist system and improve their own livelihoods.

This nuanced perspective sheds light on the complex dynamics of power and exploitation, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on the historical trajectory of the Dutch empire and the role of ordinary individuals in shaping its course.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 153 x 226 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032087030