Amsterdam Pictures and Information
by Jim Krumm
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Amsterdam is open, free, and friendly. Its success lies in an enterprising people.
Amsterdam, the capital of Holland is also it largest city at 1.36 million. Amsterdam is part of the Ranstad metropolitan region which consists of 6.7 million people. I think I can honestly say that I have never been to a country in Europe where so many people smile. Bikes are everywhere. In fact, it is difficult to take a picture of a street and not catch an image of a bike. Public transportation with its system of street cars and busses and trains and river ferries are the best I have ever experienced in any country. The city is beautiful with cobblestone streets, fine old buildings dating back hundreds of years and canals with boats seemingly everywhere. Holland has one the highest population densities in Europe. One direct result are Amsterdam's famous narrow buildings. The river Amstel flows through the city, and is the origin of Amsterdam's name. Today it is known for being one of the biggest sea ports and trading centers in the world, including for the diamond trade. Amsterdam is also known for its open mindedness in permitting its red light district and coffee houses (the local term for where patrons can buy and smoke marijuana).
Amsterdam dates back to the 1100's when it began as a fishing village. In the 16th century at the conclusion of the 80 years war protestant Holland gained its independence from the Spanish. Amsterdam soon became a important sea port based on its enterprising people, its central location in Europe, and its fine ships. As a result Amsterdam became the wealthiest city in the world. Its ships at the time were considered the best made. Even Peter the Great came here to study ship building incognito working as a common carpenter to learn how the Dutch made their boats. Holland became known for religious tolerance. In 1602 the first stock market in the world was established in Amsterdam. Overseas colonies once owned by the Dutch include New Amsterdam (now New York City in North America), several colonies in India, Colombo in Sri Lanka, Jakarta (known as the Dutch East Indies), Dishima, Japan, Cape Town in South Africa, and Saint Maarten, Curacao, Aruba and Bonaire in the Caribbean.
Snapshots From Amsterdam
Amsterdam's Botanical Gardens
©All rights reserved by James Krumm. Originally made available at www.caspercomsci.com. Materials here can be used, and redistributed, provided proper reference is made to the origin and author(s) of these materials. Please send any corrections or suggestions to jkrumm@caspercollege.edu. Last modified Nov. 8, 2011.
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