Colonialism and Slavery

An Alternative History of the Port City of Rotterdam

A surprising look at the history and legacy of imperialist Rotterdam. Dutch imperialism transformed Rotterdam, Netherlands from a murky wetland into Europe's largest seaport. Today, as the so-called "New Rotterdammers" flock to the urban center from former colonies, the city's complex ties to slavery around the world demand increased scrutiny. Gathering insights from an interdisciplinary group of scholars, Colonialism and Slavery confronts the lasting impact of colonization on contemporary Rotterdam's economy, politics, architecture, and art.

Unlike most city histories, this book focuses exclusively on the city's connections with colonialism and slavery. Rotterdam, the second-largest Dutch city, is one of Europe's leading ports.