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Marianne Thieme (born 1972) is a Dutch politician, animal rights activist, and co-founder of the Party for the Animals (Partij voor de Dieren, PvdD).

Alfred Henry ‘Freddy’ Heineken (1923–2002) was more than just a businessman—he was a marketing genius who turned Heineken into one of the most recognizable beer brands in the world.

Hella Haasse (1918–2011) was one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated authors, known for her beautifully crafted historical novels and deep explorations of identity.

Robbert Dijkgraaf is a Dutch theoretical physicist and mathematician known for his work in quantum physics and string theory. Born in 1960 in the Netherlands, he studied physics at Utrecht University and later became a professor.

Annie M.G. Schmidt (1911–1995) wasn’t just a writer—she was a revolution in rhyme. With her sharp wit, playful language, and a healthy dose of mischief, she turned Dutch children’s literature upside down.

Constantijn Huygens (1596–1687) was a true polymath—poet, composer, diplomat, and scientist. As one of the most influential figures…

Arnon Grunberg (born 1971) is one of the most celebrated and prolific Dutch authors of his generation.

Karel Appel (1921–2006) was a Dutch painter, sculptor, and one of the founding members of the CoBrA movement.

Marleen Stikker is a Dutch internet pioneer, entrepreneur, and activist dedicated to open technology and digital rights.

Rutger Bregman is a Dutch historian, author, and thought leader known for shaking up conventional wisdom. Born in 1988, he has gained worldwide recognition for his fresh perspectives on economics, history, and social progress. His ideas challenge pessimism and promote a future where fairness, equality, and innovation thrive.

Johanna Westerdijk (1883–1961) was the first female professor in the Netherlands, but she was much more than just a pioneer—she was a scientist with a sense of humor, a love for music, and an undeniable passion for fungi.

Louis Couperus (1863 – 1923), born in the Hague and raised partly in the Dutch East Indies, was a living bridge between worlds.

Multatuli, the pen name of Eduard Douwes Dekker (1820–1887), is one of the most celebrated and controversial figures in Dutch literature. Born in Amsterdam, he didn’t initially aspire to be a writer.

Rineke Dijkstra, one of the most celebrated Dutch photographers of our time, has a knack for capturing the raw essence of humanity.

Jan Adriaenszoon Leeghwater (1575 – 1650), born in the picturesquevillage of De Rijp, North Holland, was more than just an engineer – he was a dreamer with a hammer and a plan.

From ordinary beginnings to extraordinary style Mathilde Willink – born Mathilde Maria de Doelder in 1938 in the picturesque town of Terneuze – was anything but ordinary.

Once temperatures start to drop in the Netherlands, the Dutch feel an unmistakable “itch in their legs”—an urge to head for frozen waters and strap on their skates.

Towards the end of each year, the Dutch embrace traditions that are all about indulging in seasonal foods and (to put it mildly) ‘chasing away the old year’s ghosts.’