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Before 'progressive' ideas about military spending took hold, navies across the world were flexing their muscles with a spectacle of engineering. Enter HNLMS Zeeland, a ship from the Netherlands—a country you might not associate with naval dominance. But back in the day, this vessel was a heavyweight contender in the imperial arms race. Built in the late 19th century, Zeeland was launched in June 1897, hailing from the once-industrial powerhouse of Amsterdam's Rijkswerf dockyard. Considered a 'coastal defense ship'—a politically savvy euphemism for 'we're playing it safe'—it patrolled oceans when iron battleships were the measure of a nation’s worth.
Why exactly do liberals want to sweep impressive feats like the Zeeland under the rug? Because this ship represents a time when the political ethos was about strength and proactive defense. Today, they might call it 'aggressive,' but back then, it was called 'necessary.' Apparently, those who forget history really are doomed to repeat its most embarrassing lessons.
Here are ten reasons why the HNLMS Zeeland stands as a monument of formidable old-school strength:
She Was a Technological Marvel: Zeeland was built with the known 'perfect mix' of armor and firepower; a handy thing when your next-door neighbors have eyes on your colonies. Zeeland packed 9.4-inch guns as her main armament, capable of delivering a punch that even modern 'armchair generals' would find hard to dispute.
Defensive Design: Zeeland was all about protecting Dutch interests. Her thick armor belt, and military-wisdom-of-the-day design, were optimized to withstand coastal assaults, demonstrating that the Dutch were anything but naïve pacifists.
Symbol of National Pride: In 1897, the Netherlands was proud of her little place on the global stage. Zeeland was commissioned during an era committed to ensuring that national interests stayed protected from external threats.
A Time When Military was Valued: If you think military spending today is too bloated or unnecessary, try defending your position when other nations are beefing up their arsenals. Back then, investing in defense was considered downright respectable.
Global Presence: Zeeland also served as a visible assurance to other nations that the Netherlands was not to be underestimated. The idea that this ship was, in essence, a floating embassy should not be lost on anyone.
A Veteran of Conflict: Zeeland was not just a pretty face. She actively served through conflicts, notably in safeguarding Dutch interests during the Boxer Rebellion in China, proving Dutch muscle in Pacific waters.
Longevity and Service: The Zeeland served until 1914, admirably protecting Dutch shores for nearly two decades. That’s a longer service life than most trendy tech gadgets these days.
Symbol of Sovereignty: Zeeland was more than a warship; she was a declaration of independence at a time when European powers were scrambling to assert domination.
Expertly Manned: Operated by a crew well-versed in naval warfare, Zeeland was a force to reckon with. The dedication and skills of her sailors reflect a time when national service was worn like a badge of honor.
Final Act of Defiance: As World War I erupted and the decision to dismantle came, Zeeland was gracefully retired, marking the end of an era but not the end of the lesson it imparted on naval fortitude and independent military strategy.
So, the next time someone tries to argue that history is only for the past or that military history doesn't shape modern strategy, pull out the harrowing tale of HNLMS Zeeland. This floating juggernaut, unlike many lukewarm defense strategies today, screamed independence and power. And that’s something worth remembering.