This guide offers you an overview of the rich history of Amsterdam. Get acquainted with the Dutch capital throughout the ages and learn how Amsterdam developed from a swampy settlement into a trade center of global proportions. The glory days of the Golden Age will be discussed, as well as some black pages from Amsterdam's history, such as slavery, the persecution of Jews during World War II and the Bijlmer disaster.Maarten Hell is a journalist and historian. His work includes several books on the history of Amsterdam.