Did you know why the dutch wear orange?
What I've learned lately about it.
Honestly, this is something I recently learned. I never had a particular interest that would lead me to know about all that earlier. Not even football, because I am not a passionate fan of football. No, I feel no shame about that last one… Or, maybe I do. But I am not sure. 😊
Anyway, I wanted to share with you my note on what I found about this love of the color orange by my Dutch friends. I hope I did not get anything wrong. If so, please let me know.
Here is why the Dutch love orange (the color) so much
The Dutch association with the color orange dates back to the 16th century and is rooted in the country's struggle for independence from Spain. In 1566, William I, Prince of Orange, became the leader of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule. His title "of Orange" came from the Principality of Orange in southern France, which he had inherited.
William I, also known as William the Silent, became a national hero and the founder of the Dutch Royal House of Orange-Nassau. Under his leadership, the Netherlands gained independence from Spain, establishing the Dutch Republic.
As a result of William's crucial role in Dutch history, the color orange became a symbol of Dutch nationalism and pride. This association strengthened over the centuries, with orange being used to represent the Dutch monarchy and, by extension, the Dutch people.
The use of orange as a national color persisted even after the Netherlands became a constitutional monarchy in the 19th century. Today, while the Dutch flag is red, white, and blue, orange remains a popular color for national celebrations, and sports events, and as a symbol of Dutch identity.
Some additional closely related facts...
King's Day (Koningsdag): This national holiday, celebrating the monarch's birthday, is characterized by a sea of orange. People dress in orange, decorate streets with orange banners, and enjoy orange-themed food and drinks.
Sports: The Dutch national teams in various sports, particularly football (soccer), are known as "Oranje" and wear orange uniforms. This has led to the phrase "Orange Fever" (Oranjekoorts) to describe the nation's enthusiasm during major sporting events.
National identity: Orange is often used in marketing and branding to signify "Dutch-ness," both within the Netherlands and internationally.
Royal events: During important royal occasions, such as coronations or weddings, orange features prominently in decorations and attire.
Liberation Day: On May 5th, celebrating the end of Nazi occupation in World War II, orange is often incorporated into celebrations alongside the national flag colors.
Dutch multinational companies: Many Dutch companies use orange in their branding to emphasize their Dutch origins, such as ING Bank and the airline KLM.
Food and drink: Orange-colored foods are popular, especially around national celebrations. For example, "Oranjebitter" (orange liqueur) is a traditional drink, and orange-colored pastries are common during festivities.
Education and diplomacy: The Netherlands awards the "Oranje Fonds" to support social initiatives, and the "Oranje-Nassau" order is a chivalric honor bestowed for national service.
So, this pervasive use of orange in Dutch culture serves as a constant reminder of the country's history and national identity, tying the modern Netherlands to its roots in the struggle for independence and the House of Orange-Nassau.
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