The occupation of the netherlands

During the Second World War, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazis forces. Learn about life and hardship under Nazi occupation.

The Occupation of the Netherlands

On 10 May 1940, the Dutch way of life changed drastically. Germany began an invasion which would see the Netherlands occupied for the next four years. The invasion took place across the country, with enemy paratroopers dropping into strategic points to allow the ground forces to advance through the Netherlands and Belgium.

Michelle Tasker - Their primary target was to enter France on its eastern border. The military campaign known as Fall Gelb (Case Yellow) created destruction across the country, despite the fact the Dutch were granted neutrality by the German government at the outbreak of war. The Dutch forces fought against the invading German troops, but they lacked experience, and their numbers were significantly less than the invading force. After four days of fighting and substantial losses, the Netherlands surrendered to Germany.

Initially, the occupation of the Netherlands was relatively mild, with the term ‘velvet glove’ being used. However, it did not last. As the war raged across Europe, the German government began to demand higher contributions from occupied territories. Because of this, standards of living began to decline drastically, and the people of the Netherlands started to feel the full impact of the German occupation. The Jewish population was no longer safe in the Netherlands, with thousands being deported to concentration and extermination camps.

By June 1944, the Dutch people were living in desperate conditions. Fuel was running low and starvation was common. Tens of thousands of people became victims of war, most of whom were innocent civilians. The winter of 1944-45 saw the Dutch people suffer more than ever. With food and fuel supplies being cut off by the Germans and farmlands flooded to hinder the Allies from advancing, millions of people endured famine. The Swedish Red Cross supplied flour to Dutch bakeries to help alleviate starvation. In addition to Swedish efforts, Allied forces reached an agreement with the German government to permit airborne food drops. This aid only provided a small amount of relief for the people, and they remained in a state of starvation and famine.

Allied forces liberated the Netherlands in May 1945.1)2)3)

  • Occupation of the Netherlands
  • Occupation of the Netherlands
  • Occupation of the Netherlands
  • Occupation of the Netherlands
  • Occupation of the Netherlands
  • Occupation of the Netherlands
    Back to top