The 1644 Dutch-Spanish Battle at Fort Amsterdam

1644 Dutch-Spanish Battle

In 1644, Fort Amsterdam became the focal point of a significant military conflict when the Dutch, led by Peter Stuyvesant, attempted to recapture St. Maarten from the Spanish. Stuyvesant, the director of the West India Company, led an assault on the fort with 800 soldiers.

During the fierce battle, Stuyvesant was severely wounded by a cannonball, resulting in the amputation of his right leg. Despite the Dutch forces’ efforts, including attempts to starve the Spanish defenders, the fort did not fall, and the Dutch were unable to reclaim the island at that time.

This battle was a pivotal moment in the island’s history, illustrating the intense European competition for control over St. Maarten.

References: St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation, St. Maarten Museum.