Holland and the Netherlands are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. North and South Holland are two of the twelve provinces in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This article explores the historical reasons behind this common confusion.
From Republic to Kingdom: How “Holland” Stuck
The region we know as the Netherlands was called the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands from 1588 to 1795. French conquest in 1795 led to the Batavian Republic, with Holland becoming one of its departments. Napoleon’s brother, Louis, became king in 1806, establishing the Kingdom of Holland. This kingdom persisted after Napoleon’s defeat, transitioning to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with Holland reduced to a single province.
Holland’s significant economic and cultural influence within the kingdom resulted in its name being widely used to refer to the entire country. This usage continued even after Belgium, initially part of the kingdom, seceded in 1830 due partly to Holland’s dominance. Later, the province of Holland was divided into North and South Holland in an attempt to balance power among the remaining provinces.
Despite these changes, the habit of using “Holland” for the whole country, especially internationally, remained strong. However, the other ten provinces—Zeeland, North Brabant, Limburg, Utrecht, Gelderland, Flevoland, Overijssel, Drenthe, Friesland, and Groningen—are equally integral parts of the Netherlands.
Beyond Holland: Exploring the Twelve Provinces
While “Holland” might be the more familiar term, using “the Netherlands” is geographically accurate. Each of the twelve provinces contributes uniquely to the nation’s identity, offering diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical sites. From the canals of Amsterdam to the windmills of Kinderdijk, the Netherlands boasts a rich tapestry of attractions beyond the borders of North and South Holland. Understanding the distinction between these terms allows for a more nuanced appreciation of this multifaceted country.
