Leiden’s historical ties to colonialism unveiled in new research
Leiden University and the city of Leiden have released new research acknowledging their historical involvement in colonialism and slavery. The findings, presented on April 3, provide evidence of the university’s and the city’s connections to colonial networks from 1600 to 1945.
The research shows that Leiden University played an active role in supporting colonial enterprises. University leaders, scholars, and students were involved in research related to the colonies, including studies on law, indigenous populations, and medical experiments. Many students, trained in various disciplines at the university, went on to work in the colonies, especially within institutions like the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the West India Company (WIC).
Although the university did not own enslaved people or shares in plantations, the study found that it benefitted from the wealth generated by colonialism and slavery. The university’s leaders were linked to influential colonial figures, which in turn contributed to its financial stability and prominence.
The research also uncovered that Leiden, despite not being a major port city, had significant connections to colonial activities. According to the work of Ramackers and Sow, many of Leiden’s political and economic leaders were involved in the VOC and WIC. These individuals helped connect investors in Leiden to colonial trade and slavery. Some also had private investments in the slave trade.
Additionally, ordinary Leiden residents reportedly also had roles in colonial networks. Some worked on producing uniforms for the colonial military, while others were trained for service on ships headed to the colonies. Soldiers from Leiden were also sent to the colonies to support Dutch colonial rule.
Leiden University’s leadership has expressed a commitment to addressing the findings from the research. Annetje Ottow, chair of the university’s board, noted that the research offers a clearer understanding of the institution’s historical connections to colonialism and slavery. She emphasized that the university would carefully consider the findings and determine appropriate next steps.
The research conducted at Leiden University adds to a broader national conversation in the Netherlands about the legacy of colonialism. In 2022, the Dutch government issued a formal apology for the country’s role in slavery and allocated 200 million euros for initiatives related to its impact, including support for descendants of enslaved people.
The research, carried out by historians Ligia Giay, Sjoerd Ramackers, and Emma Sow, was commissioned by the university’s Board of Governors and the Leiden city government.
