Dutch colonization refers to the period when the Netherlands established overseas territories during the 17th century, known as the Dutch Golden Age. The Dutch sought to expand their trade networks and access valuable resources, leading to the establishment of colonies in regions such as the Americas, Africa, and Asia. One of the most notable colonies was New Netherland, which included parts of present-day New York and New Jersey. The Dutch also played a significant role in the spice trade through their control of the Dutch East India Company, which operated in Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia.