The capture of Olinda represented a crucial episode in the Dutch-Portuguese War, which was primarily fought over control of sugar-producing territories in Brazil. Under the command of Hendrick Lonck, the Dutch West India Company launched a military expedition targeting the rich Brazilian coast. They aimed to exploit the region's sugar resources, which were vital to the European economy at that time. Olinda, known for its high-quality sugar production, was a strategic target, offering both economic benefits and a foothold in the region.

The Dutch forces faced resistance from Portuguese colonists and local Indigenous populations but were ultimately successful in overcoming these challenges. With an effective naval strategy and support from local allies, the Dutch forces were able to establish a presence that would influence the region for decades. The capture of Olinda, alongside nearby Recife, set the stage for an extensive period of Dutch rule known as Dutch Brazil, marked by cultural and economic changes in the region.

This period saw the flourishing of arts and sciences, with significant contributions to architecture and urban planning in the cities under Dutch control. Additionally, Hendrick Lonck's leadership allowed the Dutch to solidify their hold further, expanding their territories in the region quickly.