[snarkpup]

Interesting how little has changed in over 300 years. In 1688, England and the Netherlands stood together as bastions of liberty against the might of the rest of Continental Europe (mainly France). England's Glorious Revolution of 1688-89, in which they secured their independence from a tyrannical faction within their own borders, required the assistance of the Dutch. If they hadn't been able to pull it off, both countries probably would have been overwhelmed by France.

[Old_Grouch]

Yes, on your comment on England and the Netherlands standing together. And look at the history of Scotland — their relationship with England has often been very troubled to the point of hostile.