Dutch colonial expansion refers to the period in the 17th century when the Dutch Republic established overseas colonies and trading posts. This expansion was driven by the desire for trade, particularly in spices, and was facilitated by the formation of the Dutch East India Company in 1602. The Dutch focused on regions in Asia, the Americas, and Africa, creating a vast network of trade routes. During this time, the Dutch also engaged in conflicts with other colonial powers, such as Spain and Portugal, to secure their interests. Key territories included parts of Indonesia, the Caribbean, and New Amsterdam, which later became New York City.