The Grote Hollandse Waard, a low-lying peat area in the Netherlands, was susceptible to flooding due to its location below sea level and reliance on dikes for protection. In November 1421, relentless rain and high tides overwhelmed the existing dike system, culminating in the catastrophic failure of one particular dike. The water burst through, inundating vast areas and submerging towns, farmlands, and lives, leading to the loss of approximately 10,000 individuals. The rapidity of the flood left little time for evacuation, with entire communities caught off guard by the deluge.

The aftermath of the flood saw significant changes in the Dutch landscape, as large areas were permanently altered by the water’s force. Towns such as Oudewater and others within the region faced complete devastation. The flood not only claimed lives but also resulted in the loss of livestock and agricultural land, leading to severe economic repercussions. Awareness of the need for improved water management and dike maintenance grew, prompting changes in infrastructure and the implementation of more rigorous policies aimed at flood prevention.

This event served as a pivotal moment in Dutch history, showcasing the dangers posed by the region’s geography and the effectiveness of its water management systems. It pushed governmental authorities to rethink their engineering and environmental strategies, leading to innovations in dike construction and the eventual establishment of more resilient coastal management practices as the country continued to develop its extensive water-control systems.