Cornelis de Houtman
Dutch explorer of Southeast Asia
Born
Died
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
Netherlands
Links & References
Born in 1565, this explorer led the first Dutch expedition to the East Indies, opening new trade routes for the Netherlands. After initial voyages to Spain and Portugal, he sailed to the Indian Ocean, ultimately reaching present-day Indonesia. His expeditions marked the beginning of the Dutch colonial era in Asia and contributed to the establishment of the Dutch East India Company.
Led the first Dutch expedition to the East Indies
Contributed to the establishment of Dutch trade routes in Asia
Pioneered exploration efforts in the Indian Ocean
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