Veerse Compagnie facts for kids
The Veerse Compagnie was an early trading company from the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands. It was started by Balthazar de Moucheron, a ship owner. He moved his business to Zeeland after events in Antwerp. This company had two ships, the 'Leeuw' (Lion) and the 'Leeuwin' (Lioness). Cornelis Houtman led their journey. The ships left Veere on March 28, 1598. They returned to the Netherlands in 1600.
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Early Dutch Trading Companies
Before the famous Dutch East India Company (VOC) was formed, many smaller trading groups existed. These groups are called voorcompagnieën (pre-companies). They were active between 1594 and 1602. These companies aimed to trade with countries in Asia.
Who Funded These Companies?
Merchants from the Northern Netherlands helped pay for these early trips. Rich people who had moved from the Southern Netherlands also invested money. They hoped to make a lot of profit from trading spices and other goods.
Why Did They Merge?
These many small companies started to compete fiercely with each other. This competition was not good for business. To stop this, the government made them join together. This led to the creation of the Dutch East India Company. This new, larger company received special rights to trade with Asia for 21 years.
The Veerse Compagnie's Journey
In 1597, Cornelis de Houtman successfully sailed to Indonesia. This was known as the First Expedition. He traveled around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa. After this success, Balthazar de Moucheron decided to focus on this new trade route.
The Company's Ships and Leaders
Moucheron founded the Veerse Compagnie. He also became a main owner of the company. In 1598, the Veerse Compagnie sent two ships to East Asia. These ships were named De Leeuw (the Lion) and De Leeuwin (the Lioness). The expedition was led by Cornelis and his brother Frederik de Houtman.
What Happened on the Trip?
The ships returned to the Netherlands in 1600. However, the two Houtman brothers did not return with them. Cornelis was killed during the journey. Frederik was captured in Atjeh, a place in Indonesia. At first, this expedition did not make much money.
