Amsterdam

History and Founding of Amsterdam:

• Prehistory of Amsterdam dates back three millennia.
• Settlements along the IJ river and Amstel tributary.
• Origins linked to a dam on the Amstel River.
• Land reclamation efforts started in the late 10th century.
• Van Amstel family played a significant role.
• All Saints Flood of 1170 led to landscape change and settlement development.

Development in the Middle Ages and Dutch Golden Age:

• Oude Kerk consecrated in 1306 AD.
• Amsterdam flourished from the 14th century due to trade with the Hanseatic League.
• Amsterdam became the wealthiest city in the Western world during the 17th century.
• Ships from Amsterdam formed a global trading network, leading to Dutch colonies.
• Amsterdam was involved in the Atlantic slave trade.
• Prosperity declined in the 18th and early 19th centuries due to wars with England and France.

Multiculturalism and Global Rankings:

• Considered one of the most multicultural cities globally.
• At least 177 nationalities represented.
• Ranked 9th best city to live in by the Economist Intelligence Unit.
• 12th globally in quality of living for environment and infrastructure by Mercer.
• 4th globally as a top tech hub in the Savills Tech Cities 2019 report.
• 3rd in innovation by Australian innovation agency 2thinknow.

Urban Development and Infrastructure:

• New suburbs built in Amsterdam like Osdorp, Slotervaart, Slotermeer, and Geuzenveld.
• Metro line established in 1977 connecting Bijlmermeer to the city center.
• Efforts to restore and preserve the city center led to its recognition as a protected area.
• A controversial metro line project faced budget overruns and construction halts.
• Urban renewal initiatives focused on areas bordering the city center.
• Infrastructure developments aimed to address the city’s growing population and tourism demands.

Demographics and Population Trends:

• Amsterdam’s population growth fueled by the rise of Baltic maritime trade.
• Population doubled between 1585 and 1610.
• Population peaked at 872,000 in 1959 before declining due to suburbanization.
• Non-Western immigrants make up approximately one-fifth of Amsterdam’s population.
• Amsterdam experienced a sharp population decline between 1970 and 1980.
• Reurbanization and gentrification led to renewed growth in the 2010s.

Amsterdam Data Sources