Dutch sieges around Taiwan, or Formosa, show that a commercial empire could also fight. Dutch defenders survived for months or years against much larger Chinese forces and, in the examples discussed, won. China had its own gunpowder weapons and cannon, although European guns tended to be heavier. Official Chinese policy might demand silver, while individual merchants wanted a wider range of European goods. An offshore trading point allowed cargoes to change between departure and arrival at Chinese ports, illustrating the interaction of military footholds and unofficial commerce.
Notable Point · 23:36-25:44
Dutch fortifications and unofficial trade around Taiwan
Taiwan shows Dutch forces sustaining fortified positions while merchants used islands and coastal routes to work around official Chinese trade restrictions.