The "Dutch Wars" refer to a series of conflicts in the 17th century primarily involving the Dutch Republic and England, as well as France and Spain. These wars were driven by competition for trade dominance and colonial expansion, with the Dutch seeking to protect their maritime interests against powerful rivals. The most notable conflicts include the Anglo-Dutch Wars, which spanned from 1652 to 1674, and the Franco-Dutch War from 1672 to 1678. The first Anglo-Dutch War began in 1652, fueled by trade disputes and naval supremacy. The wars saw significant naval battles, including the famous Battle of the Downs and the Battle of Scheveningen. Ultimately, the conflicts reshaped European power dynamics, leading to the decline of Dutch naval dominance and the rise of England as a major maritime power.