The Dutch colonial era refers to the period when the Netherlands established overseas territories and trade routes, primarily during the 17th century. This era was marked by the expansion of the Dutch East India Company, which played a crucial role in trade, particularly in spices, textiles, and other goods from Asia. The Dutch also colonized parts of the Americas, Africa, and Southeast Asia, leaving a lasting impact on these regions. During this time, the Dutch implemented a system of mercantilism, focusing on maximizing profits from their colonies. They built forts and trading posts, such as Batavia in present-day Indonesia, to control trade routes. The legacy of the Dutch colonial era can still be seen today in the cultures, languages, and economies of former colonies.