1674: The Dutch West Indies Company underwent a major reorganization, positioning it to become a primary actor in the international slaving business.

1674: The Dutch West Indies Company underwent a major reorganization, positioning it to become a primary actor in the international slaving business. This restructured enterprise focused on supplying labor to both Dutch colonial possessions and foreign markets through regional hubs like Curaçao and St. Eustatius. The company’s activities were a vital part of the Dutch effort to compete with the growing maritime power of the British and French empires. By streamlining its operations, the company facilitated a steady flow of captives from the Gold Coast and West Central Africa to the Americas.