ABSTRACT
This chapter studies how the Dutch capitalised on war and how capitalism and war reinforced each other. Dutch entrepreneurship and inventiveness are outlined in channelling warfare for economic benefit. The inventions of Maurice, William Louis, and others in creating a well-oiled military machine are discussed. The take-off period of the Dutch economy and war’s role in causing this economic boom are addressed. The growth and significance of the arms production in Amsterdam and elsewhere in the Republic are depicted. It is shown how trade with all and sundry, including the enemy, became accepted. The role of government regulation and control in steering arms production and trade and in stimulating the branch is investigated. The degree of hypocrisy regarding war profiteering from high to low is weighed. The Mennonite pacifist challenge is presented as a challenge to the facile brutality underwriting the arms industry.
