A Brief History of the Netherlands, Second Edition provides a clear, lively, and comprehensive account of the history of the Netherlands from ancient times to the present day. It relates the central events that have shaped the country and details their significance in historical context, touching on all aspects of the history of the country, from political, international, and economic affairs to cultural and social developments. Illustrated with full-color maps and photographs, and accompanied by a chronology, bibliography, and suggested reading, this accessible overview is ideal for the general reader. Coverage includes: From Early Settlements to Frankish Rule Political Strife and the Rise of Urban Life Wars of Religion and Emancipation Resplendent Republic Dynamo in Decline From Republic to Empire to Kingdom Building the Modern Nation-State Neutrality, Depression, and World War Reconstruction and Rebirth after World War II The Netherlands in the Twenty-first Century: the Triumphs and Trials of a Tolerant Society

Developed with the beginner in mind, this Grammar uses abundant examples and extensive cross-referencing to present the language in an engaging and accessible manner. Features include: core vocabulary for each unit a Dutch-English glossary three short stories further reading and resources. This is an ideal companion to a classroom-based course, helping to further explain and reinforce the grammar content of any chosen textbook. It is also an invaluable tool for independent learners.

The relation of language variation to reconstructed languages and to the methodology of reconstruction has long been neglected. In this volume, the relationship between language and variation is considered from a number of different angles, looking at evidence from various language families. In doing so, the papers in this volume address a number of interconnected issues which are of current concern in comparative and historical linguistics.

In The Dutch Language in Japan (1600-1900) Christopher Joby offers the first book-length account of the knowledge and use of the Dutch language in Tokugawa and early Meiji Japan, which had a profound effect on Japan’s language, society and culture.