A city of paradoxes, and since the late 1500s the epicentre of the Netherlands. During much of the 17th century the city played a dominant role in world affairs as well. Long a global financial centre, it continues to be a cultural weathervane for the country and far beyond. This book does not answer every question the reader may have but certainly enhances knowledge and appreciation for a city, which so often is a point of reference in debates over new developments in attitudes and thought. Perhaps the title should have read “A Short History of the Most Fascinating City.”
