The Dutch East Indies was a vast colonial territory under Dutch control from the early 17th century until World War II, covering much of modern-day Indonesia. Established primarily through the Dutch East India Company (VOC), the colony became a major hub for trade in spices, coffee, sugar, and other valuable goods. The Dutch East Indies played a crucial role in the global economy, with the Dutch maintaining control through both diplomatic relations and military force. It saw several uprisings and revolts before eventually gaining independence as Indonesia in 1949 after World War II.