A more capable Netherlands could remain useful to Europe's major powers as a neutral buffer. Greater naval strength, heavy industry, and shipyard capacity would also make it more influential abroad and more coveted by its neighbors. The historical Netherlands possessed skilled craftsmen but lacked the volume of heavy industry and major-ship infrastructure needed to occupy that stronger position. Tideman's program might therefore have improved Dutch sea power while increasing the strategic pressure placed on the country.
Notable Point · 9:30-10:50
The geopolitical cost of a stronger naval Netherlands
Tideman's stronger Netherlands might gain global influence while also becoming a more tempting target for neighboring great powers.