Terminology from the Age of Sail

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Search result for definition: VOC
VOC: Dutch East India Company or 'Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie'. The VOC was established on March 20, 1602 and was granted a Dutch monopoly on the trade to and from the East Indies. The VOC was responsible for protecting the Dutch Republic and prevent, or at least make it difficult, for other European nations to enter the East India trade. The VOC consisted of six chambers: Amsterdam, Zeeland, Delft, Rotterdam, Hoorn and Enkhuizen. During its 200 year history, the VOC became the largest and most successful company of its kind, trading spices such as nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon and pepper, and items like tea, silk and Chinese porcelain. In the mid-17th century its fleet numbered some six thousand ships. Typical ships of the VOC.