Trading states, trading places: the role of patrimonialism in early modern Dutch development

The Netherlands established its power in the 16th century through its patrimonial administrative structure and the economic growth encouraged by the king of Habsburg. Geographic location, technological innovations and the government's control of production supplemented the politico-economic development. The merchants' influence on government policy-making increased. However, Dutch influence decreased in the 17th century with an increase in problems between the patrimonial state, the corporate sector and the competitors.