Vereenigde

Vereenigde is an archaic Dutch adjective meaning "united" or "joined." In historical Dutch spelling, the form Vereenigde appeared frequently in the names of federations, joint ventures, and political entities. Modern Dutch most often uses the spelling verenigde, but many classic documents and names retain the older form.

In history, the term is most recognizable through two prominent uses. The Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie, commonly referred to by its acronym VOC, was the United East India Company founded in 1602. It was established as a single corporation by several Dutch trading interests to regulate and expand trade with Asia, functioning with quasi-governmental powers for a substantial period. The name embodies the idée of unity among diverse merchants and regions under one organization.

Another major use is in the designation of the Dutch Republic, historically referred to as the Vereenigde Provinciën or the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands. This refers to the federation of seven provinces that coordinated in defense and governance during the Dutch Golden Age, roughly from the late 16th century until the late 18th century. The term signals the union of separate polities into a common political and military framework.

Today, Vereenigde survives mainly in historical contexts and in proper names that preserve older orthography. In contemporary Dutch, the standard spelling for the concept of “united” is verenigde, as seen in terms like Verenigde Staten (United States). The historical form remains a customary marker in discussions of the Dutch Republic and early corporate entities.