Dutch King Issues Historic Apology for Netherlands' Role in Slavery
Originally Published 2 years ago — by BBC
Dutch King Willem-Alexander has formally apologized for the Netherlands' role in the transatlantic slave trade, acknowledging the country's historical involvement and expressing personal remorse. The Dutch royal family, including the House of Orange, did nothing to stop the practice, and a recent study revealed that Dutch rulers received significant wealth from colonies where slavery was enforced. The King's apology came during an event marking the 160th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Netherlands, and he called for healing, reconciliation, and restoration after acknowledging the lack of action. The Netherlands became a major colonial power in the 17th Century, holding territories across the globe, and Dutch slave traders trafficked over 600,000 people.
