Dutch Republic

Name given to the United Provinces, a federation of states in the northern Netherlands 1579–1795. The United Provinces had formed under the Treaty of Utrecht in 1579 to resist Philip II's policy in the region, declaring their freedom in 1581. The country's independence was finally recognized by Spain in the Peace of Westphalia (1648). Although plagued by internal conflicts, the Dutch Republic thrived as a trading nation and colonial power in the 17th century, its success bringing conflict with Portugal, England, and France. Decline set in during the 18th century, and the Republic collapsed in 1795 with the arrival of French Revolutionary forces, when it was replaced by the French-sponsored Batvian Republic.